This book describes how dictators no longer need to provoke a coup d'etat or military take over, they just take over a democracy from within by subverting its key pillars. Very relevant even if Trump loses. .

This is a must read for anyone interested in politics or the human world today.We all take democracy for granted but this work is a wake up call to its fragility and ultimate dependence on unwritten rules,goodwill and the spirit rather than the letter of the law. Written in a clear and accessible way this book is alarmingly prescient but also optimistic in looking forward and offering positive actions for change. Although it is written with an American focus, the authors draw upon the histories of Peru, Austria, Spain, Venezuela, Finland, Chile, and Hungary to name but a few countries. There is much of relevance to the UK reader also. The recent peroguing of parliament is discussed as is the polarisation of society related to the toxic Brexit debate. The rise of authoritarianism is clearly linked to the loss of forbearance and mutual respect between politicians and competing sections of society.The rise of tribalism is explored in the context of social media, politics by Twitter and the assault by politicians on the media, judiciary and other independent instruments of the state. In the time of Trump, Bolsonaro, Erdogan, Putin, Duterte and Orban we have never been in more need of a plan to challenge populist authoritarianism. By referencing the cooperation of opposition politicians and voters to prevent the election of authoritarians in Austria and Finland the authors signal hope and a way forward.

What I appreciated most is how clear and direct it is. This isn’t a dry academic book, but one that feels aimed at everyday readers who care about the future of our society. It helped me see warning signs I’d overlooked and think more seriously about what keeps a democracy healthy (if this can ever be possible). At the same time some arguments felt a bit one‑sided, and at times it seemed to lean a little too hard on specific examples rather than giving a full picture. But even so, it’s a valuable read that pushes you to reflect on why democratic norms matter.