Demagogues and Despots. Democracies on the Brink

Democracy and despotism are surprisingly intertwined, and a sharply insightful book highlights why this should be a cause for widespread concern. We are living through challenging times, characterized by a disturbing pattern that threatens democracy globally: the rise of despotic power not only in Russia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia but also in nations led by democratically elected populists such as Orban, Erdogan, Netanyahu, and Trump. Esteemed political analyst John Keane illustrates how this modern form of despotism defies conventional political norms. Rather than solely depending on fear or coercion, it cultivates a bizarre, quasi-democratic regime led by leaders adept at securing public allegiance through manipulated elections, legal manipulation, corruption, strategic dishonesty, and rhetoric about perceived enemies. Even more troubling is the collective nature of these new authoritarian figures. But why is democracy so valued? In vibrant and fervent language, Keane argues that democracy transcends just popular self-rule or fair elections. It represents a collective determination to challenge unaccountable power, asserting that democratic systems are our strongest defense against populists and autocrats.