week 5: domestic repression; aristotle, deibert and yom.

Domestic Repression

Actions taken by governments to neutralize threats to their rule and maintain power, includes

1. arrests

2. restrictions on speech and association

3. surveillance

4. torture

5. disappearances

6. killings.

Democratic Regression

The decline in democratic principles and practices, leading to concerns about authoritarianism becoming the dominant form of government globally.

Tyranny

A form of government opposed by Aristotle as the worst due to its repression and hindrance to individual flourishing and the good life. tyranny is unnatural.

Milgram Experiment

A psychological study showing the potential for individuals to obey authority figures, suggesting that physical distance from those affected may reduce tyrannical behavior.

Aristotelian Tyrannical Society

Characterized by

1. a focus on economic issues

2. apolitical engagement

3. misuse of leisure time

4. lack of pursuit of excellence

5. a diminished sense of community.

Modern Democracy

Characterized by

1. free press

2. free and fair elections

3. a human rights-centered constitution, but may still engage in political repression.

Repressed Society Characteristics

Public focus on

1. economic matters

2. apolitical engagement

3. leisure time spent on amusement

4. widespread loneliness

5. lack of community.

Authoritarianism

A form of government characterized by

1. censorship

2. lack of elections

3. curfews

4. high military spending

5. depoliticization of the public

6. emphasis on specific educational fields.

are modern democracies’ repressive?

• the spyware article! millions are being spied on and used via their phones. this is a human rights privacy violation.

• pegasus program targets include lawyers involved in politically sensitive cases.

• authoritiain regimes can infiltrate opposition movements easier with pegasus program.

  • so in these cases ^, yes modern democracy can be repressive.