The Road to Unfreedom

Autor*innen

Timothy Snyder

Buchbewertung

4,4(6323)Abgeben

Parameter

368 Seiten
13 Lesestunden

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From the author of On Tyranny comes a compelling exploration of the resurgence of authoritarianism across Russia, Europe, and America. Following the Cold War, the triumph of liberal democracy was deemed irreversible, with many predicting a peaceful, globalized future. However, this optimism proved misguided as authoritarianism re-emerged in Russia, where Putin harnessed fascist ideologies to legitimize the rule of the elite. By the 2010s, this trend spread westward, fueled by Russian military actions in Ukraine and cyber warfare targeting Europe and the United States. Russia forged alliances with nationalists, oligarchs, and radicals, seeking to undermine Western institutions and values, which found alarming support within the West itself. The rise of populism, Brexit, and Donald Trump's election were all aligned with Russian objectives, highlighting the fragility of Western societies and the precariousness of their political frameworks. This significant challenge to democracy invites a deeper examination of the foundations of our political order. In this incisive work, Snyder draws on extensive research and personal insights to unveil the true nature of the threats facing democracy and the rule of law. By clarifying the stark choices we face—between equality and oligarchy, individuality and totality, truth and falsehood—he revitalizes our understanding of our way of life and offers a path forward amid profound uncertainty.