The resurgence of authoritarianism across the West, including the Biden-Harris administration’s censorship initiatives, signals a troubling trend in what was once considered a liberal society. The Covid pandemic acted as a catalyst, revealing that many Western countries had adopted authoritarian measures akin to those seen in historical regimes. Rather than a sudden shift, this transformation was a process decades in the making, culminating in a reflection of more stringent control reminiscent of past oppressive governments. This has led to a pressing question for citizens: “What comes next?”
Historical precedents show that authoritarianism has repeatedly emerged throughout human history, often leading to significant conflict and societal upheaval. In the 1940s, the world saw a wave of authoritarian socialist regimes, which ultimately brought about global conflict. Responses to these tightening regimes varied based on geography and circumstances. For example, residents of New York might have adjusted their investments, while those in Britain prepared for possible shortages by stockpiling food. Others, like the Swiss, took more drastic measures, such as packing bags in case of an invading force. The critical challenge for individuals considering their response to authoritarianism lies in timing and assessing the cost of their potential actions. Whether it’s altering financial strategies, moving families, or becoming more self-reliant, these decisions weigh heavily on individuals, especially those with the most to lose.
As costly as these preparations can be, many people will naturally choose to resist authoritarianism, regardless of their political stance. Historical patterns suggest that those who have established personal or familial stakes in a given social order are less likely to abandon it without a fight. While many have been vocal about leaving during other political cycles, it tends to be key figures and influential individuals on one side of the political divide who threaten to depart, while the other side remains resolute in their commitment to stay and persevere. This determination to remain and confront authoritarianism often stems from the notion that significant loss will spur even those who consider themselves neutral into a fight for liberty and personal freedoms.
Encouraging signs have emerged in the face of rising authoritarianism. Public sentiment has begun to shift against oppressive measures, as demonstrated by the electoral success of populist movements in various Western countries, including the United States. The backlash is partly traced back to the collective rejection of the overreach witnessed during Covid. The rapid institutionalization of leftist ideals has left many in the public skeptical and disillusioned, leading to a waning credibility of authoritarian structures. While tyranny has its foothold, the condition of a totalitarian regime being quickly disassembled showcases the effectiveness of collective resistance, hinting at a broader societal rejection of such power grabs.
Liberty’s resilience, coupled with technological influences such as the rise of the internet, indicates that hope may thrive amidst troubling times. Despite the authoritarian tendency to consolidate power and resources, historical context suggests that oppression is fundamentally unstable. This is due to an inherent characteristic of humanity — a desire for freedom that, when awakened, challenges the foundations of control. Although authoritarian regimes wield financial power and access to state resources, movements advocating for liberty are gradually gaining momentum. As these sizeable groups swell in number and assert themselves, they inadvertently diminish the financial and institutional advantages held by authoritarian governments, creating an environment ripe for change.
As discontent grows amongst citizens across political spectrums, the juxtaposition of numbers against monetary resources demonstrates that the tide is starting to turn. Economically, authoritarian regimes are increasingly wrestling with challenges like rising debt, sluggish market conditions, and the destabilizing effects of inflation, suggesting that their power may be more fragile than it appears. The eventual confrontation between burgeoning movements for liberty and the dwindling resources of authoritarian structures suggests an inevitable shift. Emphasizing the historical role of those resisting unjust rule, the author highlights a transformative moment on the horizon, suggesting that with patience and perseverance, those advocating for freedom will ultimately prevail over authority.