Timothy Snyder: ‘You have to be in the moment in order to get through the moment’

Summary

In this thought-provoking discussion, historian Timothy Snyder offers insights into the rise of authoritarianism, focusing on the challenges posed by Donald Trump's political ambitions. Snyder urges individuals to stay engaged and resist passive compliance with undemocratic actions. He stresses the importance of community cooperation and supporting local institutions to safeguard freedoms. Drawing from history, including the fall of communism, he emphasizes that authoritarian regimes often self-destruct due to internal discord. Above all, Snyder advocates for non-compliance, continued activism, and staying true to one's democratic values in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• 😀 Remain politically engaged despite difficult circumstances and the potential for an authoritarian shift in the country.
• 😀 Authoritarianism is possible when people become anxious or feel isolated, so it’s crucial to avoid both feelings.
• 😀 Donald Trump cannot succeed in transforming the country into an authoritarian state without the active support of others.
• 😀 The people surrounding Donald Trump, including influential figures like Elon Musk and Vladimir Putin, may have difficulty cooperating over the long term.
• 😀 Instead of relying on 'guardrails' to stop authoritarianism, we must actively create safe spaces, wells, and cooperative institutions.
• 😀 Support for democratic institutions is vital but is most effective when we actively engage with them and acknowledge their constitutional authority.
• 😀 The emotions driving Trump supporters in 2020 were less about the vote count and more about anger and a willingness to take extreme actions.
• 😀 The current situation offers an opportunity to resist the radical actions some Trump supporters are advocating, like extreme deportations.
• 😀 'Don’t obey in advance' is a lesson rooted in history, reminding us not to passively accept authoritarian rule before it fully manifests.
• 😀 The key to resisting authoritarianism is to continue being the person you were before the political changes, focusing on defending freedoms and rights.
• 😀 The fall of communism in Eastern Europe didn’t happen because of a single event like the Berlin Wall falling, but due to widespread cooperation and the rejection of authoritarian norms.

Q & A

What is the key message Timothy Schneider is conveying about the current political climate?

Timothy Schneider stresses the importance of resisting authoritarianism and staying politically engaged. He encourages people to remain hopeful, cooperative, and active in defending democratic values, even in the face of potential authoritarian threats like Donald Trump's leadership.

What role does anxiety and loneliness play in enabling authoritarianism, according to Schneider?

Schneider explains that anxiety and loneliness make authoritarianism possible by isolating individuals and weakening their resolve to resist. He emphasizes the need for solidarity and active participation in the fight against authoritarian regimes.

How does Schneider view the group of people surrounding Donald Trump, such as Elon Musk and Vladimir Putin?

Schneider views this group as being unable to effectively govern together in the long term, despite their initial alliance against political opponents. He suggests that their internal disagreements could weaken their efforts to consolidate power.

What is the significance of 'not obeying in advance' as mentioned by Schneider?

'Not obeying in advance' refers to maintaining one's personal values and standing firm against unjust actions, even before they are formally mandated. Schneider highlights this as a core principle in resisting authoritarianism, where individuals must not passively conform to harmful policies.

What historical example does Schneider use to highlight the power of collective resistance against authoritarianism?

Schneider references the fall of communism in Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, where collective cooperation and defiance of authoritarian regimes played a crucial role in bringing about change, even when the regime itself seemed formidable.

Why does Schneider emphasize the importance of local institutions and governments in resisting authoritarianism?

Schneider argues that local institutions, like state or city councils, play a vital role in preserving democratic values. By supporting and engaging with these institutions, citizens can create a network of resistance that counters authoritarian impulses at the national level.

What does Schneider mean when he says that authoritarian regimes can't succeed without the support of the people?

Schneider asserts that authoritarian regimes rely on the passive compliance or active support of the population to function. If individuals refuse to obey in advance and maintain their agency, these regimes struggle to sustain themselves.

How does Schneider encourage people to respond to policies they view as authoritarian, such as deportation or restrictions on rights?

Schneider suggests that citizens should challenge such policies by questioning their necessity, holding officials accountable, and engaging in civil dialogue. He urges people to take a stand and work with their communities to resist harmful measures.

What is the connection between freedom and the concept of remaining true to oneself in the face of authoritarianism?

Schneider connects freedom with the ability to maintain one's principles and identity, even when external circumstances change. He stresses that personal integrity and resistance to unjust policies are foundational to preserving freedom.

What message does Schneider have for those feeling hopeless or overwhelmed by the current political situation?

Schneider reassures people that their values remain intact despite the political climate. He encourages them to stay committed to their causes, such as defending abortion rights or freedom of speech, and to continue fighting for what they believe in, regardless of who holds power.