Want to know how democracy dies? Have you not been paying attention?

Democracies don’t die because of military coups.  Nowadays, and most often, they die because of a gradual erosion of political norms.  Somebody wins a legitimate election, takes over the state, challenges the governing constitution, and threatens to reject official election results.  All of which, to make sure he never loses again.  Sound familiar?

Understanding this scenario, and anticipating this fact should be important to everyone, especially given ongoing developments in our own country.

Also, consider this. Modern authoritarian propaganda doesn’t look like authoritarian propaganda of the past.  It’s not like back in the day when the Soviet Union showcased young ladies driving tractors, working in mills, celebrating big harvests and lauding economic success.  Today, autocratic propaganda stresses the notion that destroying political, judicial, and social institutions, or any remnants what this nation traditionally holds dear is necessary for change.  All fueled by contradictory information and repetitive lies. Maybe this sounds familiar!

Taking it one step further, most modern autocracies are really kleptocracies, with corrupt leaders using their position of authority for personal gain, regardless of legal challenges or ethical standards.  They break the regulations.  They suppress journalism. They capture the courts.  They push against the rule of law.

The purpose is to stay in power.  Now…this has to sound familiar!!!

 NUFF SED!!!