Plain English with Derek Thompson The Bad Guys Are Winning
Dec 3, 2021
In a gripping conversation, Anne Applebaum, a Staff Writer at The Atlantic and expert on global democracy, explores the disturbing rise of authoritarianism in places like Russia, China, and even the U.S. She discusses the emerging 'Autocracy, Inc.' network, where dictators collaborate to quash democratic movements. Applebaum highlights Turkey's shifting stance on the Uyghur community due to economic ties with China and examines how social media fuels illiberalism. The urgency for reform in American democracy is emphasized as autocratic tactics grow more prevalent.
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Autocracy, Inc.
- Modern dictatorships operate as networks, not as single entities.
- These networks collaborate, sharing resources and strategies, even across differing ideologies.
Belarus and Autocracy
- Belarus's dictator, Lukashenko, suppressed opposition and falsified election results.
- Russia and China supported Lukashenko, showcasing their shared interest in undermining democracy.
Russia's Motivation
- Russia aims to prevent successful democratic movements near its borders.
- Putin fears a similar uprising and the exposure of his regime's corruption.