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Middle East Focus

Rethinking Democracy, Ep. 1: Why Does Democracy Flourish? With Francis Fukuyama and Paul Salem

Mar 26, 2024
Political scientist Francis Fukuyama and Middle East expert Paul Salem discuss why democracy flourishes in certain countries, analyzing historical, geographical, and cultural factors impacting its evolution. The podcast delves into the Arab-Israeli conflict, the complexities of democracy in the Middle East, the components of a functioning state, moral clarity in conflicts, national identity, and comparisons between authoritarian and democratic systems.
52:13

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Democracy flourishes in countries with unique traditions and historical factors, contrasting with prevalent authoritarian regimes globally.
  • The Arab world's struggle with democratization is hindered by historical, cultural, and economic challenges, reflecting contrasts from European state formation.

Deep dives

Challenges to Democracy's Strength in the Globe

The future of democracy faces a critical juncture globally in 2024, with concerns rising over citizens' trust in democratic institutions. The complexities of combating domestic and international foes to democracy, intertwined with threats to the liberal international order, present interlinked challenges. Driven by historical factors and unique traditions, established democracies like the United States have flourished, contrasting with authoritarian regimes more prevalent historically. The interplay between democracy and liberalism underscores tensions that emerge as populist movements globally challenge established democratic norms.

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