Snyder aims to equip individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize and resist authoritarianism in its various forms. The book serves as both a historical analysis and a practical guide for defending democratic values in contemporary society. Here are the 20 lessons offered with clearer details in the book:
Do not obey in advance: Authoritarian regimes often rely on the passive compliance of citizens. By anticipating and conforming to what they think the authorities want, people effectively give up their freedom without being forced to. Snyder urges individuals to resist the temptation to self-censor or self-police their actions in anticipation of authoritarian demands.
Defend institutions: Democratic institutions like the judiciary, the press, and civil society organizations play a crucial role in maintaining checks and balances. When these institutions are under attack, citizens must actively support and protect them. This includes voting, participating in civic activities, and speaking out against efforts to undermine these institutions.
Beware the one-party state: Democracies thrive on political pluralism. When a single party gains excessive power, it can erode democratic norms and institutions. Snyder advises vigilance against efforts to concentrate political power and encourages support for multiple political parties and viewpoints.
Take responsibility for the face of the world: Symbols matter. Hate symbols, such as swastikas or Confederate flags, convey messages of exclusion and violence. Snyder encourages people to actively reject and remove such symbols from public spaces, and to promote symbols that represent inclusivity and democracy.
Remember professional ethics: Professionals, including lawyers, doctors, teachers, and businesspeople, have ethical obligations that go beyond legal requirements. Upholding these professional standards can serve as a bulwark against tyranny. Snyder encourages professionals to remember their ethical duties and act with integrity, even under pressure.
Be wary of paramilitaries: Paramilitary groups often operate outside the law and can be used to intimidate and suppress dissent. Snyder warns of the dangers posed by these groups and advises citizens to be alert to their presence and to oppose their activities.
Be reflective if you must be armed: If you find yourself in a situation where you are armed, it’s crucial to reflect on the responsibilities and consequences that come with it. Snyder stresses the importance of understanding the gravity of using force and acting with a clear ethical framework.
Stand out: Acts of resistance, no matter how small, can inspire others and create a ripple effect. Snyder encourages individuals to take bold stands against authoritarianism, even if it means standing out or going against the crowd. Courage is contagious.
Be kind to our language: Language shapes our reality. Authoritarian regimes often manipulate language to distort the truth and spread propaganda. Snyder advises vigilance in maintaining the integrity of language, being precise in speech, and resisting euphemisms that hide the truth.
Believe in truth: The foundation of democracy is a shared commitment to facts and truth. In an age of misinformation and "fake news," Snyder underscores the importance of defending the truth, supporting independent journalism, and questioning sources critically.
Investigate: Access to accurate information is crucial for a functioning democracy. Snyder urges citizens to seek out reliable sources of news, question official narratives, and verify facts before accepting them.
Make eye contact and small talk: Building personal connections with others in your community can help strengthen social bonds and create networks of trust. Snyder suggests that simple acts like making eye contact and engaging in small talk can help counteract isolation and fear, which are often exploited by authoritarian regimes.
Practice corporeal politics: Physical presence and participation in civic activities, such as protests, community meetings, and public gatherings, are essential for democracy. Snyder emphasizes the importance of showing up and being physically present to support democratic causes.
Establish a private life: Authoritarian regimes often seek to invade and control private lives. Protecting personal privacy, securing digital communications, and maintaining boundaries between public and private life are crucial steps in resisting such control.
Contribute to good causes: Supporting organizations that promote democratic values, human rights, and social justice can help build a stronger civil society. Snyder encourages individuals to contribute time, money, or skills to causes they believe in.
Learn from peers in other countries: Democracies around the world face similar challenges. By connecting with and learning from activists, scholars, and citizens in other countries, people can gain valuable insights and strategies for defending democracy at home.
Listen for dangerous words: Pay attention to language that dehumanizes others, promotes hate, or normalizes authoritarian ideas. Snyder advises being alert to such rhetoric and challenging it whenever possible.
Be calm when the unthinkable arrives: Crises, whether real or manufactured, are often used by authoritarian regimes to consolidate power. Snyder suggests staying calm, analyzing the situation critically, and resisting panic-driven responses that can lead to the erosion of democratic norms.
Be a patriot: True patriotism involves defending the core values and principles of democracy, rather than blindly following leaders or party lines. Snyder encourages citizens to uphold democratic ideals and work towards the common good.
Be as courageous as you can: Defending democracy requires courage. Snyder calls on individuals to find the strength to stand up for their beliefs, even in the face of adversity, and to inspire others to do the same.
Enjoy reading this highly relevant and important book.
Credit: Written by ChatGPT 4o with little editing.
