Timothy Snyder, a renowned historian and author of *On Tyranny*, discusses the alarming resurgence of authoritarianism in the context of Trump’s politics. He reflects on the lessons from history and emphasizes the danger of conforming to fascistic influences. By examining the interplay of money, media, and power, Snyder warns about the critical need for individual resistance and factuality in democracy. He also touches on the importance of solidarity for a truly free society and critiques Trump’s foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine.
Trump's political strategy reflects a new kind of fascism that challenges traditional American democratic norms and governance structures.
The overwhelming influence of wealthy patrons like Elon Musk reveals a troubling shift in political allegiance and accountability, undermining democratic processes.
Deep dives
The Complexity of Trump and Authoritarianism
The discussion delves into the nature of Donald Trump's political presence, suggesting he embodies a form of fascism that has reshaped American politics. Rather than simply being a politician lacking traditional attributes, Trump introduces new methods of governance that some observers fail to recognize. This misperception stems from a belief in the resilience of American democracy, bolstered by constitutional safeguards, leading many to underestimate the profound impact Trump has had. The discourse emphasizes that authoritarianism can manifest even in the absence of total power, indicating that Trump's previous presidency reflected fascist tendencies despite a lack of full authoritarian control.
The Role of Wealth and Oligarchs in Politics
The conversation highlights the significant influence of oligarchs, particularly Elon Musk, in shaping the political landscape, showcasing a departure from traditional political discourse. Trump’s reliance on wealthy patrons illustrates a complex relationship where power dynamics shift as funds dictate political loyalty and decisions. This environment creates a scenario where billionaires wield disproportionate influence over governance, often sidelining democratic processes. The intertwining of wealth and politics raises critical questions about the future of democracy in the U.S., with a call for accountability and transparency in political funding.
The Erosion of Truth and Factuality
The importance of factuality as a cornerstone of freedom is emphasized, highlighting its role in fostering democratic discourse and preventing authoritarianism. Acknowledging the decline of truth in public discourse, the discussion warns that without a shared commitment to factuality, political outcomes become increasingly precarious. The impact of misinformation is illustrated through instances where media and individuals conform to an environment dominated by lies, leading to a normalization of authoritarian narratives. This trend underscores the need for commitment to truth and rigorous engagement with facts to ensure a functioning democracy and to empower citizens.
After Donald Trump was elected president in 2016, historian and professor Timothy Snyder wrote a long post on Facebook. Here's how it started:
"Americans are no wiser than the Europeans who saw democracy yield to fascism, Nazism, or communism. Our one advantage is that we might learn from their experience."
Snyder went on to share twenty lessons about authoritarianism from the 20th century. They would lay the groundwork for his 2017 book On Tyranny. Fast forward to 2024, and Snyder's warnings about authoritarianism are being amplified once again.
He joins the show to look ahead to the next four years of the Trump presidency, through the lens of his latest books: the just-released On Freedom and On Tyranny.