America’s Authoritarian Slide: Is a Reversal Possible?
The escalating use of “authoritarianism” reflects the rise of authoritarian regimes globally, undermining democratic institutions. A significant portion of political scientists and Americans perceive a trajectory towards authoritarianism in the U.S., particularly associating it with figures like Donald Trump. Authoritarianism differs from totalitarianism in its intensity; totalitarianism exerts complete control over society, encompassing a developed ideology and charismatic leadership fostering fervent loyalty. Conversely, authoritarianism often lacks a cohesive ideology and relies on a passive population to maintain power. The United States currently faces a similar crisis of modernization as early 20th-century Germany, exhibiting advanced sectors alongside significant economic and cultural backwardness, making it vulnerable to a prolonged period of authoritarian rule.
John Q. Hosedrinker