Democracy

Editor's Note

William McKenzie

Is democracy in decline? Is democracy in danger?

Democracy in Decline

Yascha Mounk

Yascha Mounk set off a heated discussion this year when the New America senior fellow wrote in the Journal of Democracy that democracy is at risk of being in decline in the U.S. and industrialized democracies.

America’s Democracy Is Not in Danger, but This Is No Cause for Complacency

William A. Galston

Support for American democracy remains strong, but its maintenance requires continued commitment by both citizens and government. In order to keep strengthening democracy in other nations, the U.S. needs to make sure democracy is delivering results to all Americans.

The Cyber Attacks on Democracy

Juan C. Zarate

Fair elections are at the core of every democracy. Russia’s actions surrounding the 2016 American election were aimed at undermining the confidence of the democratic process. What can be done to prevent interference in future elections?

Condoleezza Rice: Why Democracy is Worth the Effort

Condoleeza Rice

An accomplished musician, Dr. Condoleezza Rice recognizes the power of art. As former secretary of state, she also recognizes the power of democracy and the thrill of watching people gain control of their fate while building a democracy.

Burma's Young Leaders on Their Flawed Democracy

After years of military rule, Burma is struggling to adopt new democratic principles. These young Burmese leaders comment on those struggles and the evolution of their democracy, including relentless challenges to religious freedom.

America’s Embrace of Democracy Abroad Matters at Home

Lindsay Lloyd

Standing alongside countries that transition into democracy is more than just supporting human rights. It’s a smart action with long-term repercussions for America’s safety and economy.

Restoring the Spirit of Liberty at Home and Abroad

Thomas Melia

In the years following World War II, democracy steadily spread across the globe and led to a period of relative peace and prosperity. The trend has begun to reverse, however, and Americans need to celebrate, protect, and extend the spirit of liberty at home, and in the world.

Restoring Trust in Business: One Company at a Time

Ken Hersh

Trust in American business has declined but the benefits of a free-market system continue to flourish. The responsibility to rebuild trust lies not with business as an industry, but on the individual business owners who participate in the free market.

Immigrants Put America First: In Coming Here, They Affirm Our Values

Carlos Gutierrez

Immigrants enter the United States with dreams of a better life for themselves and their families. Rather than posing a threat to our democracy, they reinforce and enrich the values that make America the country it is.

The Press and Public Trust in an Age of Fake News

Olivier Knox, Keven Willey

The lines between fact, fiction, exaggeration, and honest reporting blur in today’s fiercely competitive media environment. A myriad of opinions from countless sources mean that the public’s ability to assess the validity of news is more important than ever before.

Democracy in America: Where Do We Go from Here?

Next generation voices provide their views on democracy’s future.

Passover, America, and the Long Road to Liberty

Rabbi Meir Soloveichik

The story of Moses and the Exodus illustrate the importance of passing on values to the next generation. Freedom and democracy can only continue to prosper if society makes a concerted effort to ensure American values move from parent to child.