Ruth Ben-Ghiat on Why Courage and Civic Action Still Matter
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, explored not only how authoritarian movements use fear, but also how citizens can respond. While acknowledging the challenges facing democracies around the world, Ben-Ghiat offered a message grounded in resilience, civic engagement, and the enduring power of collective action.
Fear Depends on Silence
Authoritarian systems rely heavily on self-censorship. Ben-Ghiat explained that leaders often target individuals not simply to punish them, but to send a message to everyone else.
When people witness public attacks, legal threats, or professional consequences directed at critics, many begin to limit their own speech and actions. In this way, fear becomes self-sustaining. Citizens start doing the work of censorship themselves.
The goal is not necessarily to win every confrontation. Instead, it is to create uncertainty and encourage people to decide that speaking up is simply not worth the risk.
Signs of Resistance Across the Country
Despite these pressures, Ben-Ghiat argued that democratic resistance remains stronger than many people realize.
She pointed to growing participation in demonstrations, expanding community support networks, and legal challenges that have slowed or blocked actions viewed as unlawful. Unlike some movements that are concentrated in a single city or national capital, contemporary civic engagement often takes place locally—in neighborhoods, towns, and communities across the country.
These efforts may not always receive national attention, but they demonstrate that democratic participation remains active and widespread.
There Are Many Ways to Participate
One of Ben-Ghiat’s most important messages was that resistance takes many forms. Not everyone must attend rallies or engage in high-profile activism.
Citizens can support democratic values by volunteering, helping vulnerable neighbors, participating in community organizations, staying informed, engaging in constructive conversations, or simply voting consistently. Civic participation can occur in public spaces or behind the scenes.
The key is recognizing that meaningful contributions come in many forms.
Rejecting Fatigue and Fatalism
Ben-Ghiat acknowledged that many people feel overwhelmed by the pace of political events and the constant flow of information. Yet she warned against surrendering to cynicism or believing that individual actions no longer matter.
History shows that democratic movements often require persistence. People may need periods of rest and renewal, but disengagement ultimately benefits those seeking to weaken democratic institutions.
A Reason for Optimism
Despite the challenges, Ben-Ghiat remains optimistic about the long-term future of democracy. Authoritarian systems often struggle under the weight of corruption, economic failures, and public dissatisfaction.
Her closing message was straightforward: citizens should not underestimate their own influence. Democracy depends on participation, and history repeatedly shows that determined individuals and communities can shape the future.
As Ben-Ghiat reminded viewers, no one can do everything—but everyone can do something.
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.