Ruth Ben-Ghiat on How Fear Fuels Authoritarian Power
JUDJ-Prepared Summary from May 20, 2026 | The Role of Fear in the Decline of Democracy: The Power, Politics and Impact of Fear as a Tool of Political Persuasion. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the speaker.
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, professor of history at New York University and author of Strongmen, examined one of the most powerful forces in politics: fear. Drawing on decades of research into authoritarian leaders and democratic decline, Ben-Ghiat explained how fear is used to gain power, maintain control, and weaken democratic institutions.
The Fear Behind the Strongman
One of Ben-Ghiat’s central observations is that authoritarian leaders are often driven by fear themselves. While they project confidence and strength, many are deeply concerned about threats to their power, reputation, and personal security.
According to Ben-Ghiat, this fear often intensifies the longer a leader remains in power. Rather than becoming more secure, authoritarian rulers frequently become more suspicious, paranoid, and willing to take extreme measures to eliminate perceived threats. History offers many examples of leaders who increasingly surrounded themselves with loyalists, purged critics, and sought greater control over institutions as their time in power extended.
Turning Political Opponents into Existential Threats
Fear becomes politically powerful when leaders convince people that opponents are not simply wrong, but dangerous. Ben-Ghiat distinguished between ordinary political polarization and what she calls “survivalism,” where citizens are encouraged to believe that only one side can survive.
Throughout history, authoritarian movements have relied on narratives that portray certain groups as existential threats to society. Whether based on race, religion, ethnicity, or ideology, these narratives create an environment in which fear can override democratic norms and rational debate.
By framing political conflict as a battle for survival, leaders can justify extraordinary actions and encourage supporters to accept measures they might otherwise reject.
The Politics of Victimhood
Another recurring theme in authoritarian movements is the use of victimhood. Ben-Ghiat noted that strongmen often portray themselves as victims of powerful forces, unfair treatment, or corrupt institutions.
This strategy allows leaders to position themselves as both champions and martyrs. By claiming that attacks against them are really attacks against their supporters, they forge a powerful emotional connection with followers. The leader becomes a symbol of the grievances and fears of an entire movement.
Why Understanding Fear Matters
Ben-Ghiat emphasized that fear is not merely an emotional reaction—it is a political tool. It can shape public opinion, encourage conformity, and discourage dissent.
Recognizing these patterns is essential for protecting democratic institutions. By understanding how fear is manufactured and deployed, citizens are better equipped to evaluate political rhetoric, resist manipulation, and preserve the principles of democratic self-government.
As history repeatedly demonstrates, fear may be a powerful weapon, but awareness remains one of democracy’s strongest defenses.
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.
