
The Next Big Idea Daily
Democracy in Retrograde
Jul 18, 2024
Lawyer Emily Amick and Betches Media cofounder Sami Sage discuss their bestseller 'Democracy in Retrograde,' exploring the state of democracy in America, the power of civic engagement, and the significance of in-person connections in upholding a thriving democracy.
10:09
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Quick takeaways
- Engage in rational dialogue to counter extreme views in democracy.
- Small everyday actions contribute significantly to shaping policies and electing leaders.
Deep dives
Role of the Exhausted Majority in Democracy
A significant factor contributing to the degradation of democracy in America is the role of the exhausted majority. Despite reaching the highest voter turnout in 2020, a substantial portion of the electorate remains disengaged, creating a space for extreme views to dominate. The exhausted majority, feeling disillusioned by political polarization, inadvertently allows vocal minorities to control public discourse. By actively engaging and vocalizing rational viewpoints, individuals can counter extreme narratives and contribute to a more balanced political landscape.