How a Decline of Democratic Standards Threatens Democracy

two men in business suits warmly shaking hands as others stand nearby illustrate democratic standards

Are democratic norms truly essential for a healthy political system? What happens when these unwritten rules start to crumble? The decline of democratic standards is a threat to the idea of democracy itself. How Democracies Die by Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt explores the concepts of mutual toleration and institutional forbearance, which they argue are necessary for democratic systems to survive. Continue reading to discover how these crucial democratic norms shape political conduct and why their erosion could spell trouble for democracy as we know it.

Dictatorial & Democratic Approaches to International Politics

chess pieces on a world map illustrate different approaches to international politics

Why do nations form alliances or go to war? What drives leaders to make these crucial decisions in international politics? In their book The Dictator’s Handbook, Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith explore various approaches to international politics. They examine how leaders secure allies, distribute foreign aid, and wage wars. The authors compare the strategies of dictators and democratic leaders in these areas. Continue reading to explore how leaders navigate the complex landscape of international relations.

Threats to Democracy: 3 Ways Public Confidence Is Lost

the back of a man who's looking at government buildings illustrates concerns about threats to democracy

What are the greatest threats to democracy today? How do healthy democratic states descend into illiberalism and authoritarian rule? Three significant factors that can erode public trust in democratic systems: extreme polarization, the decline of democratic norms, and wealth inequality. Each of these threats poses unique challenges to the stability and effectiveness of democratic governments. Read more to explore how these threats impact our democratic institutions.

Key Differences Between Democracy and Dictatorship

people behind a wire fence on the left and free people on the right depict the differences between democracy and dictatorship

How are democracies and dictatorships different? How is the size of their power base related to the way different leaders operate? In The Dictator’s Handbook, Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith say the primary goal of all leaders is to get power and keep it. This is true in all political systems; the differences between democracy and dictatorship can be seen in how power is gained and who holds leaders accountable. Keep reading to understand these crucial distinctions and to gain a deeper grasp on why democracy is a superior system.

2 Ways Democracy and Economic Inequality Are Connected

people standing on stacks of coins of different heights illustrate the link between democracy and economic inequality

Is economic inequality eroding the foundations of democracy? How does the widening wealth gap affect our social fabric? Democracy and economic inequality are increasingly intertwined in modern society. We draw insights from a philosopher and an economist to understand the complex relationship between these two factors, examining how growing social divisions and reduced social mobility can threaten democratic systems. Continue reading for perspectives on this crucial issue shaping our world today.

How to Gain Political Power: 2 Herculean Steps to the Top

a man from behind in a business suit climbing an ornate staircase illustrates how to gain political power

How do political leaders rise to power? What strategies do they use to gain control of a party or a country? In their book The Dictator’s Handbook, Bruce Bueno de Mesquita and Alastair Smith explore how to gain political power. They outline a two-step process that both dictators and democratic leaders follow to seize control. We break down their insights on building support and replacing existing governments. Read on to uncover the secrets of political power.

How to Protect Democracy: 3 Strategies to Stave Off Threats

a security guard in front of a large granite building labeled "Democracy" illustrates how to protect democracy

Are you concerned about the state of democracy in your country? Do you wonder how to protect democracy in an increasingly polarized world? Shortform’s Master Guide to Threats to Democracy explores practical solutions to safeguard democratic institutions. We’ll examine several approaches that aim to strengthen democracy and foster a more inclusive political landscape. Read on to discover how you can play a role in protecting and revitalizing democracy in your community and beyond.

Bridging the Gap: 3 Potential Solutions to Political Polarization

the United States torn in two pieces of blue on the left and red on the right illustrates solutions to political polarization

Are you tired of the constant political bickering? Is there a way to bridge the divide between opposing sides? Shortform’s Master Guide to Threats to Democracy explores solutions to political polarization, offering strategies to heal deep social divisions. It presents three expert-recommended approaches to overcome the hostilities that threaten democracy’s functionality. Read on to discover how forging diverse coalitions, engaging in local politics, and finding empathy for your opponents can help mend our fractured political landscape.

Thomas Piketty: Inequality of Wealth Can Be Reduced 3 Ways

cartoon drawing of three people each holding two dollars illustrates Thomas Piketty's inequality of wealth solutions

What do you think about the growing wealth gap in our society? Should this issue be addressed? According to Thomas Piketty, inequality of wealth can be dealt with. In his book Capital in the Twenty-First Century, he proposes three key economic reforms to reduce wealth inequality: a global wealth tax, increased financial transparency, and progressive taxation. Continue reading to understand Piketty’s ideas and their implications for society.

3 Institutional Reforms That Could Save Democracy (Ezra Klein)

a drawing of the US Capitol building illustrates proposed institutional reforms in American politics

Are you tired of the constant political division in America? Is it possible to reduce polarization through institutional changes? In his book Why We’re Polarized, Ezra Klein proposes a set of institutional reforms aimed at reducing political polarization in the United States. He suggests three key changes: replacing the Electoral College, creating multi-member districts, and eliminating the Senate filibuster. Keep reading to get details on Klein’s proposals and to understand how these institutional reforms could reshape American democracy.