On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
Both of these positions, inevitability and eternity, are antihistorical. The only thing that stands between them is history itself. History allows us to see patterns and make judgments. It sketches for us the structures within which we can seek freedom.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
When we take an active interest in matters of doubtful relevance at moments that are chosen by tyrants, oligarghs and spooks, we participate in the demolition of our own political order.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
You might not be sure, today or tomorrow, who feels threatened in the United States. But if you affirm everyone, you can be sure that certain people will feel better.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
When we learn of one scandal, it whets our appetite for the next.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
To remember
The fact that most Americans do not have passports has become a problem for American democracy.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
For the same reason, resolve any legal trouble.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
People who assure you that you can only gain security at the price of liberty usually want to deny you both.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
Ukrainian and Russian journalists who sniffed the air in the Midwest said more realistic things than American pollsters who had built careers on understanding the politics of their own country.
Timothy Snyder • On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
Nastier rulers will use what they know about you to push you around. Scrub your computer of malware on a regular basis. Remember that email is skywriting. Consider using alternative forms of the internet, or simply using it less.