Extreme right-wing politicians are gaining momentum globally. They often rely on four main tactics, similar to those the Nazi dictator promoted in his infamous book:
1. The Big Lie: This involves spreading a blatant falsehood, like the 45th President of the USA denying Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 election, or the Nazi dictator's claim that the Jewish community was responsible for Germany's defeat in World War I.
2. Repetition and Simplification: This tactic involves the constant repetition of simplified slogans, such as "Make America Great Again" or “Ein Volk, ein Reich, ein Führer."
3. Scapegoating: Blaming a particular group for a nation’s problems, like blaming immigrants for America’s issues (crime, economic troubles, etc.) or the systematic targeting of the Jewish community as the cause of Germany’s economic struggles, including the Great Depression.
4. Playing on Emotions, Particularly Fear, Greed, and Anger: Using fear to manipulate, such as labeling political opponents as communists, similar to how the Nazis exaggerated the communist threat to justify authoritarian measures and suppress dissent.
In these challenging times, Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century offers a practical and effective guide to protecting democracy. His lessons, summarized below, provide concrete actions for everyday life, all of course to the tune of “O bella, ciao! bella, ciao!...”
1. Do not obey in advance
Don’t anticipate what a tyrant wants and start doing it yourself. Thoughtless obedience makes authoritarianism possible.
2. Defend institutions
Support and protect democratic institutions, as they are essential defenses against tyranny.
3. Beware the one-party state
Watch out for efforts to undermine political diversity. Defend multiparty politics and democratic checks.
4. Take responsibility for the face of the world
Be aware of the symbols and slogans around you, including hateful or authoritarian propaganda.
5. Remember professional ethics
Professionals, especially in law, medicine, and education, should act according to ethical standards rather than government directives that undermine them.
6. Be wary of paramilitaries
Watch out for unofficial militias that may support a regime's goals outside the boundaries of the law.
7. Be reflective if you must be armed
Soldiers and police should be mindful of their duty to the public and the Constitution, not just to orders.
8. Stand out
Be courageous and take visible stands against injustice, as others may follow your example.
9. Be kind to our language
Avoid clichés and speak accurately. Tyrants rely on vague language to manipulate and deceive.
10. Believe in truth
Defend the concept of truth. Reject lies, and resist the normalization of falsehoods.
11. Investigate
Seek out trustworthy sources and verify information. Support investigative journalism.
12. Make eye contact and small talk
Build a sense of community by engaging with others. This can foster a culture of mutual support and resistance.
13. Practice corporeal politics
Participate in protests and demonstrations. Physical presence matters when defending democratic principles.
14. Establish a private life
Protect your privacy from surveillance and maintain spaces where you can freely think and act.
15. Contribute to good causes
Support organizations and movements that promote civil rights and democratic values.
16. Learn from peers in other countries
Look to other nations that have resisted authoritarianism for guidance and solidarity.
17. Listen for dangerous words
Be cautious of language that divides, dehumanizes, or incites violence.
18. Be calm when the unthinkable arrives
Don’t let shock paralyze you. Think clearly and act to uphold democratic principles during crises.
19. Be a patriot
Defend your country by supporting its foundational values, not by blindly following leaders.
20. Be as courageous as you can
Courage is essential in resisting tyranny. Small acts of bravery can collectively make a significant difference.