Lawfare Archive: Democracy's Morticians: Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt on 'How Democracies Die'
Nov 3, 2024
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Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, comparativist political scientists and co-authors of 'How Democracies Die,' dive into the threats faced by modern democracies. They analyze the fragility of democratic institutions using historical examples from Chile and Venezuela, highlighting warning signs of potential authoritarianism. The conversation touches on the rise of populism, the dangers of extreme polarization, and the importance of political forbearance. They stress the need for vigilance to navigate today’s political landscape.
The podcast emphasizes the critical role of upcoming elections in determining the survival of democracy amid increasing political polarization in the U.S.
Historical parallels with Chile and Venezuela illustrate the fragility of democratic institutions when facing populist challenges and societal discontent.
Recognizing warning signs of democratic decay such as rejection of rules and condoning violence is essential for voters to make informed choices against authoritarianism.
Deep dives
The State of American Democracy
The importance of the upcoming election to the state of democracy in the U.S. is emphasized, as both candidates make strong statements reflecting their views. Vice President Kamala Harris asserts that democracy is at stake, calling her opponent a fascist, while former President Donald Trump accuses Harris of trying to undermine the country. This stark contrast in rhetoric showcases the heightened political polarization and anxiety surrounding the electoral process. The implications of these comments suggest a fundamental struggle over democratic principles and governance in the nation.
Lessons from Historical Democracies
During discussions about how democracies can survive under populist influences, historical examples such as Chile and Venezuela are analyzed for parallels to the current American political climate. Chile's democracy faced significant polarization before it ultimately collapsed, prompting reconsideration of its established norms. Venezuela's descent into authoritarianism is described as a product of failure among political elites to address societal issues, leading to the rise of Hugo Chavez. These cases illustrate the fragility of democratic institutions when confronted with populist challenges and the critical importance of understanding historical context.
Warning Signs of Democratic Erosion
The podcast highlights four key warning signs that indicate potential threats to democratic governance. These include the rejection of established democratic rules, curtailment of civil liberties, condoning violence, and refusal to recognize the legitimacy of opponents. It is argued that recognizing these signs early can help prevent the rise of authoritarian leadership. By identifying candidates who exhibit these behaviors, voters can be better informed about the risks associated with electing them to power.
The Role of Political Norms
Critical norms such as mutual toleration and forbearance are discussed as essential components of a functioning democracy. Without a willingness to accept opponents as legitimate rivals, democratic institutions may struggle to maintain stability. The erosion of these norms poses a significant threat to the American political landscape, as partisan polarization increases. The podcast suggests that restoring these norms is vital for the health of democracy and must be prioritized by political leaders and the electorate.
The Danger of Polarization
Extreme polarization is positioned as a significant factor contributing to democratic instability and failure. The conversation underscores how rising hostility between factions can lead individuals to perceive rivals as existential threats rather than legitimate political opponents. This shift in perception can result in actions that undermine democratic processes and institutions. To mitigate this risk, fostering dialogue and understanding across political divides is deemed essential for preserving the future of American democracy.
From May 1, 2018: Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, authors of the new book “How Democracies Die,” join Benjamin Wittes for a conversation about the conditions under which democracies survive and how American democracy can survive its experiment with populism.