Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and historian, dives into her latest book, 'Autocracy Inc.', revealing the rising tide of authoritarianism worldwide. She discusses the collaboration among autocratic nations like Russia and China against democratic values. The talk touches on deteriorating U.S.-Canada relations, driven by trade tensions and tariffs, while also examining the role of climate policy in shaping political narratives. Applebaum highlights the challenges democracies face today and Canada's resilience in navigating these turbulent waters.
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insights INSIGHT
Autocracy Inc.
Autocratic countries, despite differing ideologies, are collaborating.
They share a common goal: to oppose democratic values.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Trump's Greenland Demand
Trump's demand for Greenland exemplifies his unpredictable behavior.
Despite existing cooperation, he abruptly demanded Greenland, causing a political meltdown in Denmark.
insights INSIGHT
Trump's Motivation
Trump's actions may lack strategic logic and are often driven by whim.
His zero-sum negotiation style focuses on winners and losers, not mutual benefit.
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In 'Autocracy, Inc.', Anne Applebaum provides a detailed analysis of how modern autocracies operate, highlighting their sophisticated networks of kleptocratic financial structures, surveillance technologies, and professional propagandists. These autocratic regimes, spanning countries like China, Russia, and Iran, collaborate across borders to maintain power and undermine democracy. Applebaum argues that international condemnation and economic sanctions are ineffective against these autocrats and calls for democracies to fundamentally reorient their policies to combat this new threat. The book serves as both a historical investigation and a practical guide for defending democratic values against the rising tide of autocracy.
Twilight of Democracy
The Seductive Lure of Authoritarianism
Anne Applebaum
In 'Twilight of Democracy,' Anne Applebaum explores the rise of authoritarianism and nationalism in modern democracies. She argues that political systems with radically simple beliefs are inherently appealing, especially when they benefit loyal adherents to the exclusion of others. The book examines how despotic leaders rely on allies, bureaucrats, and media figures to support their rule and how modern authoritarian parties offer new paths to wealth and power. Applebaum draws on historical examples, including Stalinist central Europe and Nazi Germany, and investigates contemporary phenomena such as conspiracy theories, social media, and nostalgia. She warns that democracies are fragile and their survival depends on daily choices made by both elites and ordinary people.
Trump: The Art of the Deal
Tony Schwartz
Donald J. Trump
This book is a mix of memoir and business advice, detailing Trump's professional and personal worldview. It outlines his approach to deal-making, including his eleven key elements for success, such as 'Think Big,' 'Maximize Your Options,' and 'Have Fun.' The book offers insights into Trump's business strategies, his interactions with various figures, and his approach to negotiating deals. It also provides a glimpse into his personal life and how he runs his organization[1][3][5].
This week, our guest is Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, historian, and New York Times bestselling author. Her latest book, Autocracy Inc.: The Dictators Who Want to Run the World, explores the global rise of authoritarianism.
On February 6th, 2025, Anne spoke at the University of Calgary's Haskayne School of Business annual PETRONAS International Energy Speaker Series. This episode was recorded live at the event.
Jackie Forrest moderated the discussion with Anne Applebaum, which covered a wide range of topics, including the timing of her new book, the Trump administration’s early actions and executive orders, and the recent deterioration of Canadian-US relations.
ARC ENERGY IDEAS 
