

Are We Headed for Civil War? - David Betz
100 snips Jul 20, 2025
David Betz, a Professor of War in the Modern World at King’s College London, shares insights on the rising risks of civil unrest in Western societies. He discusses the implications of multiculturalism on national identity and social cohesion, emphasizing how factionalism erodes trust in political institutions. Betz warns about the potential for civil war in a low-trust society and explores the dynamics of political unrest fueled by social media. He stresses the importance of dialogue and reform to navigate these turbulent times.
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Defining Civil War
- Civil war originates internally between groups under the same sovereign authority.
- Such conflicts are long-term processes often mistook as short revolutions or uprisings.
Multiculturalism's Deep Impact
- Multiculturalism undermines the pre-political loyalty needed for a unified nation.
- It erodes shared identity and legitimacy that make democratic systems function.
The Civil War Risk Curve
- Civil war likelihood peaks where a formerly dominant majority fears losing status.
- Such groups still have power to mobilize, risking serious conflict in nations like Britain.