on tyranny by timothy snyder
Just finished On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder and thought it was a very nifty little book. I would certainly encourage others to read it, but will note there are no citations. From what I did look up, it has all checked out. For me, just being someone who reads the news every day I recalled about anything the author mentioned.
Regardless, each "lesson" is its own chapter, some longer than others. I wanted to post them here and would encourage you to purchase the book or get it at your local library if you want to read the author's expanded thoughts (it is quite brief, regardless).
- Do not obey in advance.
- Defend institutions.
- Beware the one-party state.
- Take responsibility for the face of the world.
- Remember professional ethics.
- Be wary of paramilitaries.
- Be reflective if you must be armed.
- Stand out.
- Be kind to our language.
- Believe in truth.
- Investigate.
- Make eye contact and small talk.
- Practice corporeal politics.
- Establish a private life.
- Contribute to good causes.
- Learn from peers in other countries.
- Listen for dangerous words.
- Be calm when the unthinkable arrives.
- Be a patriot.
- Be as courageous as you can.
Brendan Trachsel © Copyright 2025