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Rebecca Huntley on the threat to democracy of isolation and distrust
Apr 15, 2025
Rebecca Huntley, a social researcher and author known for her insights into Australian social and political issues, discusses the rising threats to democracy stemming from isolation and distrust. She highlights the dwindling faith in fairness among younger Australians, exacerbated by housing crises and skepticism towards government. The conversation dives into the importance of civic engagement and optimism to combat cynicism, stressing that rebuilding social connections is crucial for revitalizing democracy and tackling significant issues like climate change.
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Quick takeaways
- Increasing isolation and declining trust in political institutions create a damaging feedback loop that undermines democratic participation.
- Economic inequality and disillusionment among young Australians threaten the core values of fairness and equality within society.
Deep dives
Impact of Isolation on Democracy
Disconnection from face-to-face engagement and the avoidance of political news have been shown to adversely affect the resilience of democracy. Increasing isolation leads to heightened pessimism regarding political institutions, which is detrimental for democratic health. Individuals who feel more isolated tend to adopt a narrow worldview, often expressing distrust in politicians and a belief that the system is rigged. This pessimism, therefore, creates a feedback loop that undermines political participation and civic engagement.
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