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Democracy Under Pressure – Why Western Societies Are Becoming Increasingly Irritable

Name: Democracy Under Pressure – Why Western Societies Are Becoming Increasingly Irritable
Start: 2027-01-13T18:00:00+01:00
End: 2027-01-13T20:00:00+01:00
Location: Hauptbahnhofstrasse 8, 4500 Solothurn, Switzerland

Hauptbahnhofstrasse 8, 4500 Solothurn, Switzerland
Solothurn, Switzerland
Wed, January 13, 2027 (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)
Wed, January 20, 2027 (6:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

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Description

Democratic societies today often appear exhausted, irritable, and polarized. Trust in politics, media, and institutions is declining, debates are becoming more aggressive, and social media amplify outrage and simplification. At the same time, many people feel that the societal center is becoming more fragile and shared truths are disappearing. The course examines the causes of this development and asks why Western democracies are currently under such strong pressure. What role do economic insecurity, digital media, identity politics, cultural conflicts, and the feeling of constant overwhelm play? Why are populist movements gaining influence worldwide? Why are political discussions becoming increasingly emotional and uncompromising? The first evening focuses on loss of trust, social media, “anger politics,” and the mechanisms of modern polarization. The course also highlights changes in public discourse in the digital age and why outrage often attracts more attention than factuality. The second evening is dedicated to the future of democratic systems. Can liberal democracies remain stable in the long term? What historical parallels exist? How do crises, geopolitical tensions, and societal fragmentation change our political systems? And what possibilities exist to strengthen democratic culture and social cohesion? Course leader: Dr. phil. Gunnar Henrich, M. A., political scientist, expert on the People's Republic of China

Highlights

Course leader: Dr. phil. Gunnar Henrich, M. A.
Two evenings focusing on loss of trust and the future of democratic systems
Discussion on the role of social media and populist movements

General Information

The course examines the challenges facing Western democracies and sheds light on the causes of the current pressure on democratic systems. Over two evenings, topics such as loss of trust, social media, and the future of democracy are addressed.