“Autocracy, Inc.” by Anne Applebaum is a significant work that explores the rise of authoritarianism and the ways in which autocratic regimes operate globally. Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and historian, examines the structures and networks that support authoritarian governments, highlighting how these regimes manipulate political systems, media, and civil society to maintain control.
In the book, Applebaum delves into the interplay between autocrats and various institutions, including business, technology, and international organizations, illustrating how these relationships can undermine democracy and promote authoritarian practices. She draws on a range of case studies from different countries to demonstrate the strategies used by autocratic leaders to consolidate power and stifle dissent.
Her work is a timely examination of the challenges faced by democracies today and serves as a warning about the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of rising authoritarianism. Applebaum’s insights are grounded in her extensive research and experience, making “Autocracy, Inc.” an essential read for anyone interested in contemporary politics, governance, and the future of democracy.