Mitteleuropas autoritäre Wellen– #624

In this book, Levitsky and Ziblatt examine how democracies are often eroded by elected leaders who gradually subvert democratic processes to consolidate their power. The authors use historical comparisons and the 'comparative method' to illustrate how democracies can die through the actions of those in power, rather than through coups or other violent means. They also discuss the impact of the Trump presidency on U.S. democracy and provide warnings about the dangers of democratic backsliding. The book highlights strategies used by autocrats, such as manipulating judicial and law enforcement institutions, creating a climate of mistrust, and exploiting crises to expand executive power.