TED Talks Daily How to spot authoritarianism — and choose democracy | Ian Bassin
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Jun 17, 2024 Ian Bassin, a lawyer and writer dedicated to democracy, discusses the critical fight against authoritarianism. He outlines the seven steps of the authoritarian playbook, showing how complacency can erode democratic principles. From recounting historical moments to highlighting the bravery of individuals like Ruby Freeman, Bassin emphasizes the significance of individual choices in protecting democracy. He urges active engagement and vigilance, reminding us that our daily decisions play a vital role in fostering a free society.
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The Binders
- Ian Bassin, a White House lawyer, received binders of memos outlining presidential conduct.
- These memos, passed down across administrations, detailed norms, not legally binding rules.
The Trojan Horse Tactic
- Modern authoritarianism often operates subtly, like a Trojan horse.
- Leaders gain power through elections, then dismantle democracy from within.
The Authoritarian Playbook
- Authoritarians follow a seven-step playbook: politicizing institutions, spreading disinformation, and aggrandizing executive power.
- They also quash dissent, scapegoat groups, corrupt elections, and incite violence.