Jason Stanley on How Inequality and Fear Fuel Authoritarianism
JUDJ-Prepared Summary from September 23, 2026 | The War on Truth: Propaganda, History and American Democracy. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the speaker.
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Jason Stanley, philosopher and author of How Fascism Works and How Propaganda Works, examined the economic and social conditions that make democracies vulnerable to authoritarian movements. Drawing on political philosophy, historical examples, and contemporary American politics, Stanley explored how inequality, fear, and cultural divisions can be exploited by political leaders seeking power—and why defending democracy requires addressing the conditions that allow these movements to flourish.
The Connection Between Inequality and Authoritarianism
Stanley argued that extreme economic inequality creates fertile ground for political demagoguery. When large portions of the population experience financial insecurity or feel excluded from economic opportunity, they become more susceptible to leaders who promise to restore their status and address their grievances.
Referencing philosophers such as Plato and Rousseau, Stanley explained that the relationship between inequality and political instability has been recognized for centuries.
He also criticized both major American political parties for failing to adequately address economic disparities, arguing that the country’s growing concentration of wealth has weakened its democratic foundations.
The Alliance Between Wealth and Nationalism
Stanley described what he considers a dangerous alliance between wealthy economic interests and far-right social conservatives.
According to Stanley, some billionaires support nationalist political movements because they anticipate benefits such as lower taxes, reduced regulation, and greater economic influence. Meanwhile, socially conservative groups may support these same movements because they promise to advance religious or cultural priorities.
He pointed to prominent technology billionaires and their involvement in American and European right-wing politics as examples of this relationship.
Stanley highlighted the contradiction between political movements that condemn powerful elites while receiving support from some of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
How Fear and Propaganda Shape Political Behavior
Another central concern was the use of fear to influence public opinion.
Stanley explained that authoritarian leaders frequently direct public anxiety toward immigrants, minority communities, and other groups portrayed as threats to national identity or economic security.
He argued that fear can diminish empathy, encouraging individuals to view their neighbors as competitors or enemies rather than fellow citizens.
Stanley also discussed how cultural grievances can overshadow economic interests, leading some voters to support policies that may not improve their material circumstances.
He emphasized the importance of labor movements in countering these divisions by bringing people together around shared economic concerns.
Building a More Equitable Democracy
For Stanley, defeating authoritarianism requires more than changing political leadership. He warned against simply returning to the economic and political conditions that preceded the current era.
Instead, he advocated strengthening labor movements, reducing economic inequality, restoring dignity to working-class Americans, and rebuilding a commitment to truth in public life.
His central message was that democracy must deliver meaningful opportunities and economic security for ordinary citizens. Without addressing the inequalities and resentments that authoritarian movements exploit, democratic institutions will remain vulnerable to future threats.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.