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.

These blogs reflect the views of the student authors, and not those of the Democratic Erosion Consortium.

History Repeats: Why Strong Global Defense is Key to Preventing Autocracy

A strong and consistent global defense by democratic nations is crucial to preventing the rise of autocratic regimes, as history shows—from the Cold War doctrines to the failed democratization of Afghanistan—that without committed follow-through and structural reform, authoritarian forces will exploit weaknesses and reclaim power.

Women in Political Dynasties: The Illusion of Choice and Democratic Erosion in the Philippines

Political dynasties have long controlled Philippine politics, with powerful families passing down leadership positions across generations. Despite the imposition of term limits discouraging dynastic rule, these families have found their way around the constitutional...

From Stardom to Senate: The Alarming Trend of Celebrity Politics in the Philippines

The intersection of celebrity and politics in the Philippines is nothing new. The phenomenon of celebrity politicians—actors, athletes, and other public figures who go from the big screen or stage to the corridors of power—has become a defining aspect of the country's...

Columbus City Council: How Local Government Hits Home

Oct 11, 2024 | Ohio State University

Turns out it's not impossible for politicians to agree on some things. Or at least that's what the Columbus City Council would have you believe. Maybe it's just a...

Disinformation and Calling 911: A Fiery City Council Meeting

Oct 11, 2024 | Ohio State University

“North Canton is a very peaceful part of Ohio. The community is small enough to get together and create amazing things. I feel very safe in North Canton and recommend new...

Two Sides: An Opinion

Apr 24, 2022 | Suffolk University

One day in seventh grade homeroom, I was handed a sheet of paper from my teacher. I saw three checkboxes followed by three words. In the moment, I didn't really care about what was happening and...

The United States Must Be Cautious of China’s Influence on the World Stage

Apr 24, 2022 | Suffolk University

Over the course of recent world history, few countries have grown quite like China, from an economic, influential and a geopolitical standpoint. However, such a change does not happen overnight....

Is U.S. Democracy Under a State of Attack?

Apr 24, 2022 | Suffolk University

U.S. democracy is very clearly in a state of crisis. An NPR poll found that “64% of Americans believe U.S democracy is in crisis and at risk of failing.” These negative feelings about the future of...

Marine Le Pen’s Loss in France Is a Victory over Populism, For Now

Apr 24, 2022 | Boston University

Last week’s presidential election in France saw Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen advance to a run-off, with neither candidate achieving the 50% majority needed to win decisively. Incumbent Macron...

Face-off in the Magic Kingdom: Ron DeSantis vs Mickey Mouse

Apr 24, 2022 | Boston University

Last month in Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis passed the “Parental Rights in Education” bill, otherwise known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by opponents. The bill prohibits “non-age appropriate”...

Biden’s Oil Reserve Plan Does Not Bode for the Environment

Apr 24, 2022 | Suffolk University

After Russia's invasion of Ukraine, oil and gasoline prices skyrocketed to ludicrous amounts of money, with a barrel of oil costing around $100 per barrel and gasoline prices slowly creeping up past...

Fox News Helped Sensationalize CRT

Apr 23, 2022 | Boston University

In the face of white backlash following the 2020 protests, Fox News' persuasive and broad reach helped Republican party leaders and elected officials mobilize conservative parents and organizations...

Marine Le Pen and the Far Right Threat to Democracy

Apr 23, 2022 | Boston University

On April 10th, 2022, France held the first round of its presidential elections with a surprising result. Emmanuel Macron, the current president of France, emerged in the lead with 27.8% of the...

COVID-19 in the United States: One Nation, Divided with Polarization and Misinformation for All

Apr 23, 2022 | Boston University

Conspiracies during the COVID-19 pandemic directly increased pre-existing polarization, but it also contributed directly to the polarization of the virus - what should have stayed a public health...