Steve Levitsky

Steve Levitsky, a Harvard professor and a bestselling author, delves into the pressing issue of democratic backsliding. He discusses the critical role of societal memory in resisting authoritarianism, drawing on examples from South Korea and the U.S. Levitsky explores competitive authoritarianism, highlighting how modern leaders manipulate public support while undermining democracy. He critiques presidential systems for fostering division and emphasizes the urgency for bipartisanship to safeguard democratic principles in turbulent times.

Harvard professors Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt delve into the challenges facing American democracy. They discuss the concept of 'tyranny of the minority' and explore the flaws within the U.S. Constitution. The duo highlights the pivotal role of young people in shaping a multiracial democracy and the importance of historical lessons from past democracies. They address the manipulative tactics of political leaders and advocate for necessary reforms like modifying the filibuster to enhance democratic participation.

Join Steven Levitsky, a Harvard political scholar and co-author of 'How Democracies Die,' as he sheds light on the Trump administration's unprecedented attacks on higher education. Wes Anderson shares insights on the intersection of cinema and pressing societal issues. Blake Moore discusses Trump's contentious Big Beautiful Bill and its implications. The conversation navigates the struggles of Harvard amidst legal battles, funding cuts in research, and the need for civil society to defend democratic values against authoritarian tactics.

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum and Harvard professor Steven Levitsky as they dissect the mechanics of modern autocracy. They explore how figures like Trump manipulate government to curb dissent, drawing parallels with regimes in Hungary and India. The conversation delves into competitive authoritarianism, the erosion of democratic norms, and the influence of factionalism. Applebaum and Levitsky discuss the vital lessons from history that can help recognize and combat rising authoritarian trends in today's political climate.

Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt, Harvard political scientists and authors of "How Democracies Die," discuss the alarming rise of authoritarianism in the U.S. They assert that it's not the voters' job to defend democracy, as they often prioritize personal concerns over abstract principles. Exploring the implications of Trump’s presidency, they highlight the dangers of minority-supported leaders and advocate for institutional reform to combat democratic backsliding. Both scholars emphasize that civic engagement and elite accountability are crucial to safeguarding democratic norms.