Open to Debate #141 - Is Western Democracy In Danger?
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Oct 11, 2017 Experts debate the risks to Western democracy, exploring themes like belief in truth, accountability, and the resilience of democratic systems. Parallels are drawn between Hitler's rise and current politics, highlighting the need for proactive measures to safeguard democracy. The debate delves into challenges like corrupt institutions, bad politicians, and the impact of authoritarian leaders on democracy's stability.
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Younger Voters Are Less Attached To Democracy
- Yasha Mounk shows survey data that younger cohorts value democracy far less than older ones, and support for authoritarian alternatives has grown.
- He warns this erosion of attachment makes democracies vulnerable when populists attack institutions.
Populism Threatens Institutions By Design
- Populists promise simple solutions and then attack independent institutions when reality proves complex.
- That pattern—blaming judges, press, and minorities—threatens democratic checks and balances.
Democracy's Core Support Still Persists
- Clive Crook argues attachment to government by consent and rule of law remains strong across the West despite disturbing populist surges.
- He contends recent crises show democracies can correct mistakes via courts, Congress, and civic reaction.