44 pages 1 hour read

Daniel Ziblatt, Steven Levitsky

How Democracies Die

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2018

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky explores the threats to American democracy by examining past examples of democratic breakdown, showing that most democracies now die through the gradual weakening of norms and institutions rather than violent overthrow. The authors discuss how political gatekeeping, norms, and institutions have historically protected democracy, but recent changes and events, including Donald Trump's presidency, pose significant risks. They propose rebuilding democratic norms and cultivating a diverse coalition to defend democracy in the United States. The book addresses anti-black racism and political extremism.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky offers a compelling analysis of democratic erosion, using historical and contemporary examples. Readers appreciate its insightful, well-researched arguments but some find it overly pessimistic and simplistic in parts. Overall, it is praised for its urgency and relevance in today's political climate.

Who should read this

Who Should Read How Democracies Die?

A reader who enjoys How Democracies Die by Daniel Ziblatt and Steven Levitsky is likely interested in political science, history, and contemporary societal issues. Similar readers might appreciate The Road to Unfreedom by Timothy Snyder and On Tyranny by the same author, which provide compelling analyses of democratic backsliding and authoritarianism.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

Politics / Government

Sociology

History: World

Genre

Social Science

Philosophy

Themes

Society: Community