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Trump, fascism and a warning from the past
Dec 20, 2024
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.
23:17
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Quick takeaways
- 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.
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