I N T R E P X

Chapter 12 of “Folly and Glory” by Tim Weiner explores the global struggle between democratic and authoritarian regimes in the 21st century, highlighting the challenges faced by the United States and its allies in promoting democracy amid a rising tide of authoritarianism. This chapter examines how democratic values are being tested both domestically and internationally, as populism, nationalism, and authoritarian governance gain traction worldwide. Weiner delves into the factors driving this shift, the implications for global stability, and the strategic responses available to democratic nations.

1. The Global Retreat of Democracy:
Weiner begins by detailing the decline of democracy globally, a trend that has been observed over the past two decades. He describes how many countries that once appeared to be on the path to democratic governance have experienced backsliding, with elected leaders undermining democratic institutions, eroding civil liberties, and consolidating power. This phenomenon is evident in countries like Hungary, Turkey, and Venezuela, where leaders have used populist rhetoric to justify authoritarian measures.

The chapter examines the factors contributing to this retreat, including economic inequality, disillusionment with political elites, and the perception that democratic systems are slow to respond to crises. Weiner also notes the role of social media and disinformation in exacerbating divisions within democracies, making it easier for authoritarian leaders to exploit societal fractures.

2. The Rise of Authoritarian Powers:
Weiner highlights the resurgence of authoritarian powers, particularly Russia and China, which have actively worked to promote their models of governance as alternatives to liberal democracy. Russia, under Vladimir Putin, has sought to undermine democratic processes abroad through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and support for populist movements in Europe and the United States.

China, meanwhile, has presented its authoritarian-capitalist model as a pathway to stability and economic prosperity, contrasting it with the perceived chaos of Western democracies. Weiner discusses how both Russia and China have used their influence to reshape international norms, weaken democratic alliances, and promote their interests on the global stage.

3. The Crisis of Democracy in the United States:
The chapter turns to the challenges facing democracy within the United States, where political polarization, mistrust in institutions, and the spread of misinformation have strained the country’s democratic fabric. Weiner explores how these domestic issues have been amplified by external actors, particularly Russia’s interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election, which exposed vulnerabilities in the electoral system and fueled public distrust.

Weiner discusses the rise of populist movements in the U.S., the erosion of bipartisan cooperation, and the growing challenges to the rule of law and democratic norms. He underscores the importance of addressing these internal weaknesses to maintain the U.S.’s credibility as a leader of the democratic world.

4. The Battle for Influence in the Developing World:
Weiner examines the competition between democratic and authoritarian states for influence in the developing world. He describes how China, through its Belt and Road Initiative and other economic programs, has extended its reach into Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, offering financial aid and infrastructure projects with few conditions attached. These efforts often contrast with Western aid, which is typically linked to democratic reforms and human rights standards.

This dynamic has led many developing countries to gravitate towards China’s model, viewing it as a viable path to economic development without the perceived interference in their domestic affairs. Weiner highlights the strategic implications of this shift, as authoritarian influence grows in regions that have traditionally been areas of Western engagement.

5. The Role of Technology in the Authoritarian-Democratic Divide:
A significant theme in the chapter is the impact of technology on the battle between democracy and authoritarianism. Weiner explores how authoritarian regimes have harnessed technology to surveil their populations, control information, and suppress dissent. China’s use of advanced surveillance systems, social credit scores, and internet censorship are cited as key examples of how technology can be weaponized to maintain authoritarian control.

Conversely, technology also offers tools for democratic resistance and activism. Social media and encrypted communication have empowered pro-democracy movements, enabling activists to organize and spread their message despite government crackdowns. Weiner discusses the ongoing struggle to control the digital landscape, where both democratic and authoritarian forces vie for influence.

6. Strategies for Defending and Revitalizing Democracy:
In the final sections of the chapter, Weiner explores potential strategies for defending democracy against authoritarian encroachment. He emphasizes the need for democratic nations to address their internal weaknesses, including political polarization, economic inequality, and the erosion of public trust in institutions. Strengthening democratic resilience at home, Weiner argues, is crucial for the U.S. and its allies to project democratic values abroad.

Weiner also calls for renewed international cooperation among democracies, suggesting that alliances like NATO and organizations such as the European Union play a vital role in countering authoritarian influence. He advocates for coordinated efforts to combat disinformation, support civil society, and promote the rule of law in regions at risk of democratic backsliding.

Conclusion:

Weiner concludes Chapter 12 by underscoring that the struggle between democracy and authoritarianism is one of the defining challenges of the 21st century. He stresses that the future of global stability hinges on the ability of democratic nations to adapt, renew, and cooperate in the face of rising authoritarian influence. The U.S. and its allies must not only defend their democratic institutions at home but also work proactively to support democratic values abroad.

This includes bolstering international alliances, engaging in strategic diplomacy, and leveraging economic and technological strengths to counter the appeal of authoritarian models. Weiner warns that failing to address these challenges could lead to a world where autocratic regimes set the rules, undermining the freedoms and principles that have underpinned the international order since World War II. Ultimately, the chapter calls for a renewed commitment to the democratic ideals of liberty, human rights, and the rule of law, arguing that these principles remain the best defense against the allure of authoritarianism.