How Democracies Die

Inoculate us from [something]

To protect someone against a potential danger, harm, or negative influence (often by exposing them to a small amount of it first).

"Critical thinking skills can inoculate us from falling for fake news."

Coercion

The practice of persuading or forcing someone to do something by using threats, violence, or pressure.

"He claimed that his confession was made under coercion."

Cold War

A state of severe political hostility and competition between countries characterized by threats, propaganda, and indirect conflict rather than direct military fighting (specifically referring to the tension between the US and Soviet Union from 1947 to 1991).

Insurgent

A person who rises in active revolt or armed rebellion against an established government or authority.

"The government forces fought to regain control of the province from the insurgents."

Abdication

The formal act of stepping down or renouncing a high office, royal throne, or major responsibility.

"The king's sudden abdication shocked the entire nation."

Forbearance

Patient self-control, restraint, or tolerance, especially when facing provocation, disagreement, or hardship.

"The teacher showed great forbearance when dealing with the noisy classroom."

Demagogue

A political leader who gains popularity by appealing to popular desires, fears, and prejudices rather than by using rational arguments.

"The speaker was accused of being a demagogue who manipulated the public's emotions."

Inevitable

Certain to happen; impossible to avoid or prevent.

"With such heavy rain, flooding in the valley was inevitable."

Contemporary

Belonging to or occurring in the present time (modern); or existing at the same time as something/someone else.

"The museum features both historical artifacts and contemporary art."

fervor

Intense and passionate feeling or enthusiasm for something.

"The fans cheered with incredible fervor throughout the entire match."

alternated

Occurred or succeeded by turns repeatedly; switched back and forth between two or more states/things.

"The weather alternated between bright sunshine and heavy rain all afternoon."

prerogative

A special right or privilege held by a particular individual, group, or official position.

"It is the president's prerogative to make the final decision on foreign policy."

incumbent

(Noun) The current holder of an official position or office. / (Adjective) Necessary or obligatory as a duty.

"The incumbent politician won the election against three new challengers."

Decay

The state or process of rotting, decomposing, or gradually declining in quality, power, or health.

"Proper dental hygiene helps prevent tooth decay."