Chpt 12: Synchronize Your Dogmas

The world, as portrayed in the media, seems rife with societal chaos and instability, in this chaos, vulnerabilities to authoritarian rule become glaringly apparent.

As the novelist Tahereh Mafi aptly reminds us, “The world I remember was tired and racist and volatile as hell, ripe for a hostile takeover by a shit regime. We were already divided. The conquering was easy.”

These words highlight how a society, already worn down by divisions, racial tensions, and volatility, can be particularly susceptible to the rise of authoritarian regimes.

Feeling Vulnerable Yet?

Mafi’s words resonate powerfully in the context of vulnerabilities to authoritarianism. In times of societal chaos, several key factors increase a society’s susceptibility to authoritarian rule. The desire for stability and order becomes paramount, as individuals yearn for a strong leader who promises to restore order, even if it involves sacrificing civil liberties. The pervading fear and anxiety generated by chaos can be harnessed by authoritarian figures who pledge security and protection, exploiting these emotions to gain support.

Moreover, societal divisions, whether they are political, ethnic, or economic, further exacerbate these vulnerabilities. Authoritarian leaders can exploit these divisions, deepening discord and weakening opposition. Economic hardship, a common feature of chaotic times, can shake people’s confidence in their government and institutions, making them more receptive to radical solutions that promise economic stability.

Accept your Consequences

The consequences of authoritarian rule are profound and often devastating. The erosion of civil liberties, a hallmark of such regimes, stifles dissent and accountability. Democratic institutions weaken, eroding checks and balances and undermining the voice of the people. Human rights abuses, including political persecution and imprisonment of opponents, often go unchecked, creating a climate of fear and oppression.

Economically, authoritarian policies may promise stability but can lead to long-term stagnation and inequality.

1. State Ownership and Control: Nationalisation of key industries and enterprises, and concentrating economic power in the hands of the state leads to inefficiency, lack of innovation, and misallocation of resources as state-controlled entities may prioritise political interests over economic viability.
2. Suppression of Private Enterprise: Restricting or suppressing private enterprise through stringent regulations, licensing requirements, and prohibitive taxes. This stifles entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth.
3. Crony Capitalism: Those with close ties to the ruling regime benefit disproportionately while hindering fair competition and economic equity.
4. Control over Financial Institutions: Significant control over financial institutions, such as banks and central banks allows them to manipulate interest rates, access funds for political purposes, and limit the flow of capital, potentially harming economic stability and development.
5. Lack of Property Rights: Weak property rights can deter investments and economic activity. In authoritarian regimes, property rights may not be adequately protected, discouraging both domestic and foreign investors from participating in the economy.
6. Censorship and Propaganda: Control of media outlets and the use of censorship to shape economic narratives. They may manipulate economic data or promote misleading information to maintain the illusion of stability and prosperity, even in dire economic situations.
7. Currency Manipulation: Manipulation of currencies to gain a trade advantage or maintain control over their economies. This can distort international trade, create economic imbalances, and harm foreign investors.
8. Resource Mismanagement: In countries rich in natural resources, authoritarian regimes may engage in resource mismanagement, such as selling off resources at below-market rates or neglecting environmental concerns. This can lead to resource depletion and economic instability in the long term.
9. Opaque Economic Decision-Making: Lack of transparency and accountability in economic decision-making can lead to corruption and embezzlement of state funds, diverting resources away from essential public services and economic development.
10. Social and Economic Inequality: Authoritarian governments may exacerbate social and economic inequality by favouring certain segments of society or directing resources disproportionately toward the ruling elite. This can result in widespread poverty and discontent.

Does any of that sound familiar?

Nice Democracy you have there…

Safeguarding democracy during crises demands a collective effort to address these vulnerabilities. Strengthening democratic institutions through transparency, accountability, and the rule of law is paramount. Fostering social cohesion can mitigate divisions and thwart authoritarian exploitation. An ideal that seems impossible in the face of increasingly partisan political parties, the adherence to secular dogmas and the push for ideological groupings.

Media literacy is an essential pillar of a resilient democracy. It equips individuals with the critical thinking skills necessary to navigate the complex information landscape of the digital age. By fostering an understanding of how information is produced, disseminated, and manipulated, citizens become better equipped to discern credible sources from misinformation or propaganda. This empowerment not only safeguards against manipulation but also encourages active participation in democratic processes. Informed and discerning citizens are more likely to engage in constructive dialogue, make informed decisions at the ballot box, and hold leaders accountable, reinforcing the foundations of a robust and responsive democracy.

Conclusion

Tahereh Mafi’s quote serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities that plague societies during times of chaos. However, it also underscores the importance of vigilance and proactive strategies to safeguard democracy. Upholding democratic values necessitates a steadfast commitment to transparency, accountability, and the principles of freedom and human rights, even when faced with the prospect of authoritarianism.

By acknowledging these vulnerabilities and collaborating to address them, individuals and communities can prevent the erosion of civil liberties and the rise of authoritarian leaders, ensuring a future guided by the principles of democracy and justice.