Twilight of Democracy

by Anne Applebaum
Twilight of Democracy cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Politics and Current Affairs
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  • ID: 3129
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780593214787
  • Publisher: Random House Large Print
  • Published: 2020-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

In Twilight of Democracy, Anne Applebaum delves into the alarming resurgence of authoritarianism across the world. She examines how leaders exploit societal divisions, leverage social media, and manipulate historical nostalgia to consolidate power. The book offers a chilling look at the tactics used to undermine democracy and the psychological appeal of authoritarianism to disillusioned citizens. /n/nApplebaum draws on her extensive experience as a journalist and historian to provide a nuanced analysis of this global phenomenon. She highlights the role of conspiracy theories and political polarization in eroding democratic institutions, offering insights into the minds of those who support authoritarian regimes. This book is a timely and essential read for understanding the threats to democracy in the modern world.

Reviews
Pastor Matthew Best · Pastor Matthew Best · 2023-05-22
hopeful 4.25

The book is described as hope-filled despite its deep dive into the destructive nature of authoritarianism. It uses real-world examples to illustrate the dangers of authoritarian rule.

Pastor Matthew Best finds the book to be both insightful and hopeful, even as it delves into the depths of authoritarianism. He appreciates Applebaum's use of real-world examples to illustrate the dangers of authoritarian rule. Best believes the book provides a balanced view, acknowledging the challenges while also offering a sense of hope for the future of democracy. The reviewer particularly values the book's ability to make complex political ideas accessible to a broader audience.

Quick quotes

    Overall, this is a hope-filled book, even as Applebaum dives deep into the depths of authoritarianism and how destructive it is.

    She uses real-world examples to illustrate the dangers of authoritarian rule.

    The book provides a balanced view, acknowledging the challenges while also offering a sense of hope for the future of democracy.

Los Angeles Review of Books · Robert Zaretsky · 2020-08-03
hopeful 4.50

The book provides a hopeful perspective on the resilience of democracy despite the rise of authoritarianism. It combines historical analysis with personal narratives to illustrate the enduring strength of democratic principles.

Robert Zaretsky finds reasons for hope in Applebaum's work, highlighting the book's ability to balance historical analysis with personal stories. He appreciates how the author manages to convey a sense of optimism even when discussing the darker aspects of authoritarianism. Zaretsky believes the book is a valuable contribution to the current discourse on democracy and its challenges. The reviewer particularly enjoys the way Applebaum weaves together different historical periods to show the cyclical nature of political struggles.

Quick quotes

    Robert Zaretsky finds reasons for hope in 'Twilight of Democracy' by Anne Applebaum.

    The book combines historical analysis with personal narratives to illustrate the enduring strength of democratic principles.

    Applebaum manages to convey a sense of optimism even when discussing the darker aspects of authoritarianism.

The Guardian · 2020-07-09
insightful 4.00

The book delves into the psychology and motivations behind those who support authoritarianism, highlighting the personal and political divides it creates. It offers a critical look at the erosion of democratic values.

The reviewer appreciates the book's exploration of the psychological factors that drive people towards authoritarianism. They note how Applebaum's personal experiences and observations provide a unique perspective on the topic. The book is seen as a timely and necessary examination of the current political climate, particularly in how it affects personal relationships and societal values. However, some might find the focus on personal anecdotes less compelling than a broader historical analysis.

Quick quotes

    Twilight of Democracy tries to deconstruct the psychology and motivation of such people.

    For some it is the chance to be noticed; for others, it is a way to gain power.

    The book offers a critical look at the erosion of democratic values.

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