Where to Start with How Democracies Die
Begin with Levitsky's seminal work, How Democracies Die, to grasp the mechanics and consequences of democratic backsliding in modern times.
Who these books are for
- Anyone interested in political science, history, or contemporary affairs
- Students and researchers of democracy, authoritarianism, and comparative politics
- Citizens concerned about the erosion of democratic norms and institutions
Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt's groundbreaking book, How Democracies Die, shines a light on the often subtle yet decisive ways in which democracies can deteriorate from within. By examining the historical and comparative contexts of democratic backsliding, Levitsky and Ziblatt provide a crucial framework for understanding the erosion of democratic norms and institutions in the modern era.
The collection
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How Democracies Die
In this timely, impeccably researched guide, Harvard experts Levitsky and Ziblatt convincingly argue that democracies are in peril across the globe, including in the United States. Drawing on decades of comparative historical analysis, they skillfully explore the incremental erosion of political norms and institutions that can ultimately lead to authoritarian regimes. Essential reading for anyone concerned about the future of democracy, How Democracies Die is a comprehensive, enlightening, and deeply unsettling look at the forces threatening our most cherished political system.
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How to Save Democracy The Anti-Authoritarian Playbook
In this urgent guide, Melissa Dalton-Bradford shines a light on the authoritarian playbook and empowers everyday citizens with practical, peaceful steps to defend democratic institutions. Drawing from history and her own experiences working with refugees, Dalton-Bradford provides a roadmap for turning anxiety into action to save democracy, equipping readers to make a difference in their communities. A must-read for anyone alarmed by the erosion of democracy and seeking a path forward.
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Democracy or Else How to Save America in 10 Easy Steps
From the creators of Pod Save America comes this timely, illustrated guide to taking action and making a difference in American politics. With a mix of humor and practical advice, "Democracy or Else" breaks down the complex process into 10 manageable steps for getting informed, donating, volunteering, organizing, and more. Featuring insights from savvy experts and refreshingly down-to-earth politicians, this book is the perfect resource for political newcomers and seasoned activists alike, empowering readers to join the fight to save democracy in the face of unprecedented challenges and contradictions.
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Democracy Awakening Notes on the State of America
In this timely and eluci...
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How Fascism Works The Politics of Us and Them
In this New York Times bestseller, philosopher Jason Stanley illuminates the insidious ways right-wing politicians erode democracy. By identifying ten pillars of fascist politics, from propaganda and anti-intellectualism to sexual anxiety and dismantling of public goods, Stanley lays bare the tactics breaking down our societies. From Hungary to the US, he examines the dangers of believing in an "us versus them" mentality. Boldly addressing our current national crisis, How Fascism Works is a critical guidebook for understanding and resisting the authoritarianism threatening our democratic ideals.
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Don't Talk About Politics How to Change 21st-Century Minds
In this timely and paradigm-shifting book, Dr. Sarah Stein Lubrano upends conventional wisdom by revealing that political discussions rarely change minds. Drawing on diverse disciplines, she exposes the psychological and sociological drivers of our political behaviors. Lubrano then offers actionable strategies for fostering true political transformation through community building, social infrastructure, and more - a must-read for anyone seeking to strengthen democracy in our increasingly polarized world.
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The Origins of Totalitarianism With a New Introduction by Anne Applebaum
"Dive into Hannah Arendt's seminal work, The Origins of Totalitarianism, for a profound examination of how anti-Semitism, imperialism, and political ideologies gave rise to ruthlessly oppressive regimes like Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia. Arendt's groundbreaking analysis of propaganda, terror, stateless peoples, and the atomization of society offers crucial insights into the terrifying preconditions for total domination. This classic work remains essential for understanding the modern world and grappling with the resurgence of authoritarianism today."
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The Price of Union: Race, Power, and the Making of American Democracy
In this profound, sweeping work, Dr. Kelly Burton reveals the hidden codependency between American democracy and racial caste, showing how for centuries, each reinforced the other. Blending rich historical narrative with incisive analysis, Burton reframes the nation's story, exposing the original bargain that made America what it is today. This challenging yet vital book invites readers to confront the true cost of the American experiment and reimagine a future built on shared humanity and the common good.
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Giving Up Is Unforgivable A Manual for Keeping a Democracy
From acclaimed constitutional law professor Joyce Vance comes a galvanizing guide for preserving democracy. In "Giving Up Is Unforgivable," Vance offers a hopeful yet candid roadmap through today's crisis, contextualizing the challenges in historical perspective while empowering readers to take action as individuals and citizens collectively. A call to unite against the erosion of democratic norms, this manifesto is both a spirited defense of the rule of law and an impassioned plea to strengthen our shared democratic future.
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Prequel An American Fight Against Fascism
In Prequel, Rachel Maddow masterfully unravels the shocking, century-old plot to overthrow the U.S. government and install authoritarian rule - a thinly veiled alliance between American fascists and the Nazis in World War II. Exposing a sophisticated disinformation campaign, secretive paramilitary groups, and even influential politicians who obstructed justice, Maddow reveals how this insidious effort still reverberates today. A gripping, timely expose of anti-democratic forces, Prequel is a must-read for anyone concerned about the fragility of American freedom.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the main argument of How Democracies Die?
- Levitsky and Ziblatt show how democracies can deteriorate from within through the actions of political elites, often exploiting existing divisions.
- Who is Steven Levitsky and what qualifies him to write on this topic?
- Steven Levitsky is a political scientist and professor at Harvard University, with expertise in comparative politics, democratization, and authoritarianism.
- Is the book focused only on the US or does it discuss global trends?
- While Levitsky draws heavily from the US experience, he also examines democratic decline in other countries and identifies common patterns and warning signs globally.