Our Own Worst Enemy: The Assault from within on Modern Democracy

In a world that seems to be increasingly divided, it is important to understand the factors that have led to the rise of illiberal and anti-democratic movements. Our Own Worst Enemy, written by Tom Nichols, offers a contrarian yet highly engaging account of this troubling trend. Nichols challenges the prevailing narratives that attribute the rise of illiberalism to external factors such as globalization or the decisions of elites. Instead, he places the blame on the citizens themselves.

By delving into the unchecked narcissism, rising standards of living, and resistance to change that have pervaded our society, Nichols uncovers the root causes of modern-day illiberalism. He highlights how ordinary citizens, burdened with grievances, have formed alliances with political entrepreneurs who thrive on stoking rage rather than encouraging civic virtue and democratic cooperation.

It may be difficult to accept, but Nichols argues that the responsibility for defending democracy lies with us. To counter the erosion of democratic values, we must revive the virtues of altruism, compromise, stoicism, and cooperation. While the task ahead may seem daunting, it is crucial to recognize how fortunate we have been in the modern world.

In Our Own Worst Enemy, Nichols presents a trenchant and contrarian perspective on the state of democracy. This thought-provoking book reframes the debate by analyzing how democracies have found themselves in such dire circumstances and offers practical solutions to address the issue at hand. If you are concerned about the future of democracy and want to make a difference, now is the time to take action.

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