Democratic Erosion University Course Student Blog

Students enrolled in our course are encouraged to write for the course blog, and to read and comment on posts from students at other participating universities. The blog offers students the opportunity to analyze current events through the lens of the theory and case studies they engage with through the course.

The Judicial Branch’s Downfall

By ruling with bias, the Judicial Branch is overstepping its constitutional role and threatening the integrity of our separation of powers and system of checks and balances.

Israel’s Judicial Reforms: A Potential Danger to Democracy?

Israel’s suggested judicial reforms pose a risk to democratic checks and balances by undermining the independence of the judiciary, centralizing executive authority, and potentially weakening democratic principles, similar to what has been observed in countries like Poland.

Arresting Opposition and Squashing Protests: Democratic Backsliding in Turkey Under Erdoğan

Turkey has been inching towards autocracy under Erdoğan and the AKP for the last 22 years.

How Will Chile Heal Itself?

Jun 12, 2022 | Koç University

Democracy resembles archeological sites as it is made up of layers and Chile is a country that fought for its democratization for centuries. Even though it constructed...

Does Bulgaria Really Support Ukraine?

Jun 12, 2022 | Koç University

Following the Russian aggression against Ukraine, it was generally questioned whether Bulgaria really supports Ukraine, but recent developments have solidified the country’s...

Lessons from a Safe Conversation about Race by Garrett Rethman @ Ohio State University

Mar 8, 2018 | Ohio State University

On Thursday, March 1st, the Bexley Public Library held the final discussion in the series Safe Conversations about Race. The program had a lofty goal, with a mission “to increase levels of...

A Warrior for Public Will: Planned Parenthood and the Eroded Legislature by Mackenzie Patrick @ The Ohio State University

Mar 7, 2018 | Ohio State University

The U.S. legislature is killing popular sovereignty. Planned Parenthood is working to save it. Since 1916, Planned Parenthood has been providing healthcare for primarily low-income, minority...

“A Certain Sort of Political Justice”: An Interview with Zack Space by Joseph Glandorf @ The Ohio State University

Mar 7, 2018 | Ohio State University

Zack Space wants to help restore American democracy from one of the last places you’d expect: the desk of the Ohio State Auditor. I'm an intern on Space’s campaign this semester. In lieu of...

Undemocratic America: How Gerrymandering is Diminishing the US Democracy by Ra’Shad Johnson @Georgia State University

Mar 7, 2018 | Georgia State University

The democratic gem, the United States, is undergoing extensive backsliding due in part to gerrymandering. Gerrymandering by definition means to divide - to divide a state into districts as to...

To the Viktor go the Spoils: Orbán’s Campaign Against Democracy by Judson Elsholz @ Georgia State University

Mar 6, 2018 | Georgia State University

Hungary has become a threat to democracy in Europe. Under the rule of Viktor Orbán, Hungary slid from a somewhat stable democracy to what can now be considered a full-blown authoritarian regime....

Civil Resistance Gives me Hope for America by Jillian Newman @ Ohio State University

Mar 5, 2018 | Ohio State University

“Fight for freedom” was the mantra of the night. As I heard this phrase said all night, I felt hope and pride for the United States. Earlier this year, I attended an open mic night at a local café....

When America Forgets Itself: How the GOP is Destroying Traditional Democratic Norms by Trey Robinson @ Georgia State University

Mar 4, 2018 | Georgia State University

Much of what the media addresses surrounding the Trump administration is over possible misconduct that is neither actually proven, nor serious enough to force any true backlash against them. This...

Lobbying, the NRA, and Democratic Erosion: What Would Marco Rubio Do For a Million Dollars? by Max Mapes @ Skidmore College

Mar 2, 2018 | Skidmore College

Two weeks ago, on February 14th, Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida joined the list of schools who terrorized by gun violence. While appalling, the shooting is not surprising,...

Women against “Trumpism” by Yanebi Blanco @ Skidmore College

Mar 2, 2018 | Skidmore College

Undoubtedly, Donald Trump's victory constitutes a turning point in the history of the United States. What many have labeled as the "Trump effect" can have a long lasting impact in the state of...