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Nervous States: Democracy and the Decline of Reason

Max Turner

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In his acclaimed book Nervous States, journalist William Davies argues that the rise of populism, authoritarianism, and conspiracy theories is a symptom of a deeper crisis within our democratic societies. Davies traces the roots of this crisis to the decline of reason and the rise of emotionalism in public life.

Davies argues that we are living in a time of "hyperreality," in which the line between fact and fiction has become blurred. This is due in part to the rise of social media, which has allowed people to create their own echo chambers and to filter out any information that does not conform to their existing beliefs. Davies shows how this has led to a decline in trust in institutions and experts, and a rise in public cynicism and skepticism.

Nervous States: Democracy and the Decline of Reason

by William Davies

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	809 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	268 pages
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Davies also argues that the decline of reason has been exacerbated by the rise of neoliberalism. Neoliberalism is an economic ideology that emphasizes the importance of free markets and deregulation. Davies argues that neoliberalism has led to a decline in social solidarity and a rise in inequality. This has made people more anxious and fearful, and more likely to be drawn to populist leaders who offer simple solutions to complex problems.

Davies concludes by arguing that we need to find a way to revive the tradition of rational debate and deliberation if we want to save our democracies. He calls for a return to the Enlightenment values of reason, science, and skepticism.

Nervous States is a timely and important book that offers a深刻なwarninfg about the state of our democracies. Davies argues that we are in a dangerous moment, and that we need to take action to address the decline of reason and the rise of emotionalism in public life.

Reviews

"Nervous States is a brilliant and timely book. Davies offers a深刻なwarninfg about the state of our democracies, and he shows how the decline of reason and the rise of emotionalism are putting them at risk. This is a must-read for anyone who cares about the future of democracy." —Timothy Snyder, author of On Tyranny

"Davies's book is a tour de force. He provides a devastating critique of the state of our democracies, and he offers a powerful and persuasive case for the need to revive the tradition of rational debate and deliberation." —Yascha Mounk, author of The People vs. Democracy

"Nervous States is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the current crisis of democracy. Davies brilliantly dissects the forces that are undermining our institutions and values, and he offers a clear-eyed path forward." —Anne Applebaum, author of Twilight of Democracy

Nervous States: Democracy and the Decline of Reason

by William Davies

4.1 out of 5