How Autocrats Attack Expertise: Resistance to Trump and Trumpism

This book explores the resistance to the threat of autocracy posed by Donald Trump and his populist attacks on truth and expertise. It documents how autocrats attack professional expertise, rely on inexpert buddies, and undermine the integrity of scientific and legal defenses of truth. The book evaluates the resilience of scientific and legal defenses of truth and appeals to scholars, students, and others interested in politics, populism, and the rule of law.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 196 pages
Publication date: 28 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book explores the persistent threat of autocracy to American liberal democracy, chronicling and analyzing the various forms of resistance to the assault on truth and the populist attacks on expertise. It provides a comprehensive account of President Donald Trump's relentless pursuit of misinformation, his undermining of scientific and legal institutions, and the widespread opposition to these actions.

Autocracy poses a significant danger to democratic societies, as it seeks to undermine the foundations of truth and expertise. President Trump's administration has been particularly aggressive in its efforts to delegitimize professional knowledge, relying on conspiracy theories and personal biases to shape public policy. This has had far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the health and well-being of the American people but also the country's international reputation.

The book delves into the various tactics employed by autocrats to undermine truth and expertise. It highlights the use of propaganda, misinformation, and social media to spread false narratives and manipulate public opinion. It also explores the suppression of dissenting voices, the marginalization of experts, and the erosion of democratic norms and institutions.

Despite these challenges, there have been significant efforts to resist the threat of autocracy. Independent scientists, scientific journals, and professional associations have spoken out against the administration's policies, advocating for evidence-based decision-making and the protection of scientific integrity. Legal challenges have also been filed to challenge the administration's policies on climate change, immigration, and other issues.

The book evaluates the resilience of scientific and legal defenses of truth in the face of autocratic attacks. It highlights the importance of robust scientific research, transparent reporting, and independent oversight to ensure the accuracy and reliability of information. It also emphasizes the role of courts and other legal institutions in upholding the rule

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the threat of autocracy to American liberal democracy, and the various forms of resistance to it. It is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and others interested in politics, social sciences, and the protection of democratic values. The fight against autocracy is ongoing, and it is essential that we continue to uphold the principles of truth and expertise to ensure the survival of our democratic societies.

Weight: 334g
Dimension: 155 x 234 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032629100