The 12 Books of Christmas | The Dictators Who Want to Run the World, with Anne Applebaum
Intelligence Squared
Deep Dive
Why has autocracy evolved into a more sophisticated and ambitious form in the 21st century?
Autocracies today operate as a network of countries, not bound by ideology but by transactional interests. They leverage global financial structures, advanced technology, and propaganda to undermine democratic challengers, focusing on the destruction of democracy as their common goal.
What are the key differences between 21st-century autocracies and those of the 20th century?
Modern autocracies are characterized by their wealth, global reach, and access to advanced technology, including surveillance and propaganda tools. Unlike 20th-century dictators, they operate across ideological, geographical, and cultural lines, forming a network rather than a traditional alliance.
How does the network of autocracies, or 'Autocracy, Inc.,' sustain weaker regimes like Venezuela?
Autocracy, Inc. sustains weaker regimes through mutual support, such as weapons from Russia, investment from China, and secret police reinforcements from Cuba. These regimes collaborate to evade sanctions and maintain power, despite their internal unpopularity.
Why do autocracies focus so heavily on undermining democracy and democratic narratives?
Autocracies see democracy as a threat because it promotes ideas like transparency, free speech, and civic engagement, which challenge their rule. They aim to weaken democracies by spreading disinformation, supporting extremist movements, and creating instability, both domestically and internationally.
What role does social media play in the narrative war between autocracies and democracies?
Social media amplifies the ability of autocracies to spread propaganda and disinformation globally. Democracies, however, are hesitant to regulate these platforms due to concerns about free speech. The algorithms of social media platforms often promote division and anger, which autocracies exploit to undermine democratic stability.
Why did economic integration with autocracies like Russia and China not lead to political democratization?
Economic integration did not lead to democratization because the elites in these countries, such as Russia's oligarchs and China's Communist Party, used trade to consolidate power rather than promote political change. The West's assumption that economic ties would naturally lead to political integration was flawed.
What is the significance of the U.S.-China economic relationship in the context of global autocracy?
The U.S.-China economic relationship is deeply intertwined, but this interdependence has not led to political alignment. Instead, it has created risks for both countries, as China's strategic goals do not align with those of the democratic world. There is now a growing awareness of the need for 'de-risking' in this relationship.
How can democracies counter the narrative and influence of autocracies?
Democracies can counter autocratic narratives by regulating social media platforms, enforcing laws on political advertising, and promoting transparency. They should also focus on addressing autocratic behaviors, such as anti-transparency measures and disinformation campaigns, rather than viewing specific countries as enemies.
What does Anne Applebaum believe about the future of democracy in the face of autocracy?
Applebaum believes that democracy is not inevitable and requires active effort to maintain. While autocracies have gained ground in recent decades, democracy can still succeed if citizens remain engaged and work to improve their societies. The key is to avoid complacency and recognize that democracy is an ongoing struggle.
What does Anne Applebaum think about the role of moderate conservatives in preserving democracy?
Applebaum argues that moderate conservatives have a responsibility to counter the divisive tactics of autocratic populists, who often use 'othering' to create a polarized electorate. By standing up against such tactics, moderate conservatives can help preserve democratic sensibilities and prevent the erosion of democratic norms.
- Autocracies today are best viewed as a network of countries, not an alliance or axis.
- They are united by their common enemy: democracy.
- They collaborate across ideological, geographical, and cultural lines for transactional reasons.
- They have access to new technology, such as surveillance and propaganda tools, used for global reach.
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