For better or for worse, this opposite extreme is supported by history and by facts. When Muslim countries experiment with secularism, what you get is a small, secular ruling class that rules over the pious masses by force. Remove that force with "democracy" and their societies revert back to form. Turkey had the longest run with their experiment with western-style secular government, now they're turning back.
Russia's experiment with western-style economic and political liberties barely lasted a decade. I wouldn't say that authoritarianism in "in their genes" (since there isn't that much genetic difference between someone from Russia or some other eastern European country), but it's certainly in their culture.
I'll also add that I don't think that authoritarian governments are necessarily a bad thing in other cultures, as the only thing that can maintain order. What's good for Americans (economic and political liberty) is not necessarily best, or even workable, for other societies, or vice-versa. The US Constitution isn't made for export any more than the writings of Confucius.
You are so right on many points and there are numerous reasons why different societies were leaning to one form or government or another throughout history but here and now in 21th century with all sorts of ideas circling the globe freely it is all about money.
A society of individuals capable to make average $20,000 annual income are generally interested in freedoms.
Those are too lazy and stupid to be there, aren’t. I came to such a conclusion observing situation in Latin America and Eastern Europe. Do some research and you would agree.
For that very reason it is useless to force democracy on 3rd world savages and Ukraine is doomed to circle a bowl between anarchy and tyranny for decades to come.