On Tyranny

1. Recognize and resist the early signs of tyranny

Do not obey in advance.

Anticipatory obedience is a critical enabler of tyranny. History shows that when citizens voluntarily extend their services to new authoritarian leaders, they unwittingly accelerate the transition to a full regime change. This phenomenon was observed in Nazi Germany, fascist Italy, and communist Eastern Europe.

Examples of early signs:

• Voluntary adoption of new, repressive norms
• Silence or compliance in the face of injustice
• Acceptance of gradual erosion of civil liberties

Resistance strategies:

• Question and critically evaluate new directives
• Stand up for targeted individuals or groups
• Maintain awareness of historical patterns of authoritarianism

2. Protect democratic institutions and uphold professional ethics

It is institutions that help us to preserve decency. They need our help as well.

Institutions as safeguards: Democratic institutions, such as courts, newspapers, labor unions, and professional associations, serve as crucial bulwarks against tyranny. However, these institutions are not self-sustaining and require active citizen participation and defense.

Professional ethics: Maintaining professional integrity is paramount in resisting authoritarian regimes. Lawyers, doctors, civil servants, and other professionals play a critical role in upholding the rule of law and human rights.

• Choose an institution to actively support and defend
• Adhere to professional ethics, even under pressure
• Resist the temptation to compromise values for personal gain or safety

3. Defend truth and investigate facts in the face of propaganda

To abandon facts is to abandon freedom. If nothing is true, then no one can criticize power, because there is no basis upon which to do so.

Truth as a cornerstone of democracy: Authoritarian regimes often attack the concept of objective truth to undermine opposition and criticism. This assault on reality takes various forms, including open hostility to verifiable facts, repetitive propaganda, and the embrace of contradictions.

Strategies for defending truth:

• Support investigative journalism and subscribe to reputable news sources
• Develop critical thinking skills and media literacy
• Fact-check information before sharing
• Engage in respectful, evidence-based discussions

4. Cultivate personal connections and civic engagement

Make eye contact and small talk.

Human connections as resistance: Building and maintaining personal relationships across diverse groups helps create a resilient social fabric that can withstand authoritarian pressures. These connections foster trust, empathy, and solidarity.

Civic engagement: Active participation in community organizations, charities, and political processes strengthens civil society and democratic norms.

• Engage in face-to-face interactions with neighbors and community members
• Join or support local organizations aligned with your values
• Participate in peaceful demonstrations and political processes
• Practice kindness and empathy in daily interactions

5. Safeguard privacy and establish a robust private life

Nastier rulers will use what they know about you to push you around.

Privacy as freedom: The ability to maintain a private sphere is crucial for individual liberty and resistance to authoritarianism. Totalitarian regimes often seek to erase the distinction between private and public life to exert control over citizens.

Practical steps to protect privacy:

• Regularly update and secure digital devices
• Use encryption and privacy-focused communication tools
• Be mindful of information shared on social media
• Support privacy rights organizations and legislation

6. Learn from history and international peers

Keep up your friendships abroad, or make new friends in other countries.

Historical awareness: Understanding past instances of democratic decline and authoritarian takeovers provides valuable insights for recognizing and resisting similar patterns in the present.

International perspective: Engaging with peers from other countries, especially those who have experienced or resisted authoritarianism, can offer fresh perspectives and effective strategies for preserving democracy.

• Study the history of totalitarian regimes and democratic resistance
• Maintain connections with friends and colleagues abroad
• Follow international news and analysis
• Consider obtaining a passport and traveling to broaden your perspective

7. Stay vigilant against the manipulation of language and emergencies

Be alert to the use of the words extremism and terrorism. Be alive to the fatal notions of emergency and exception.

Language as a tool of control: Authoritarian regimes often manipulate language to justify repression and silence opposition. Words like "extremism" and "terrorism" can be weaponized to delegitimize dissent.

Manufactured emergencies: Tyrants frequently exploit real or fabricated crises to consolidate power and suspend normal democratic processes.

• Be critical of rhetoric that dehumanizes or demonizes groups
• Question the necessity and proportionality of emergency measures
• Support organizations that defend civil liberties
• Maintain a long-term perspective during crises

8. Embrace patriotism, not nationalism

Set a good example of what America means for the generations to come. They will need it.

Patriotism vs. nationalism: True patriotism involves a commitment to universal values and a desire for the nation to live up to its ideals. Nationalism, in contrast, often promotes an uncritical acceptance of the country's actions and a hostility towards outsiders.

Characteristics of patriotism:

• Holding the nation accountable to its founding principles
• Welcoming constructive criticism and self-reflection
• Valuing democratic institutions over personality cults
• Rejecting discrimination and embracing diversity

9. Maintain courage and hope in the face of adversity

If none of us is prepared to die for freedom, then all of us will die under tyranny.

Courage as a civic virtue: Resisting authoritarianism requires individual and collective courage. This doesn't mean fearlessness, but rather the willingness to act despite fear.

Hope as a catalyst: Maintaining hope in the face of adversity is crucial for sustaining long-term resistance and inspiring others to action.

• Draw inspiration from historical and contemporary examples of resistance
• Build supportive communities to share burdens and maintain morale
• Celebrate small victories and progress
• Cultivate personal resilience through self-care and mindfulness practices

Last updated: September 24, 2024