Book Review: Autocracy, Inc. by Anne Applebaum
As a seasoned book blogger, I’m no stranger to thought-provoking reads, but when I stumbled upon Anne Applebaum’s Autocracy, Inc., it sparked an intense curiosity within me. After all, who wouldn’t want to dive into a Pulitzer Prize winner’s critique of authoritarian regimes, especially in a world teetering on the brink of geopolitical instability? Yet, my initial intrigue quickly morphed into a quagmire of frustration—a feeling mirrored in my one-star rating for a book that ostensibly champions liberal Western values.
Applebaum’s central thesis asserts that Western democracy stands in stark opposition to the autocratic practices of regimes like those in China, Iran, and Russia. She argues that these authoritarian states not only suppress free speech but also amplify their influence through disinformation campaigns undermining democratic societies. While her critiques of these governments may ring true to many, the glaring hypocrisy in her argument became painfully evident. Applebaum often glosses over uncomfortable truths, specifically the West’s own paradoxes—most notably, the U.S.’s unwavering support for Israel despite its apartheid policies. Herein lies the core of my dissent: how can we call ourselves defenders of democracy when our actions tell a different story?
The writing itself is both fluid and engaging, drawing the reader in with Applebaum’s authoritative voice. However, what struck me most about her narrative technique was her selective presentation of evidence. For instance, she shines a spotlight on the hypocrisy of authoritarian regimes while willfully ignoring the historical context of U.S. interventionism—an era steeped in supporting dictators to secure corporate and geopolitical interests. I couldn’t help but wonder: why wouldn’t a Pulitzer-winning author choose to tackle the full scope of these complexities?
Quotes linger long after the last page, such as her assertion that “the West is beset by its own autocracies of silence.” For me, this encapsulated the dilemma we face today—a situation in which propagandized narratives obliterate open discourse. Yet, I found myself grappling with the irony; Applebaum herself has been part of a media landscape that echoes selective truths, resonating perfectly with her critiques of the media systems in authoritarian states.
Despite these frustrations, I can’t deny that Autocracy, Inc. plays a vital role in sparking conversation about democracy and its discontents. It would likely appeal to readers who appreciate a critical examination of foreign policy, particularly those willing to engage with its contradictions. However, I leave with the feeling that the book would have thrived had it embraced a broader narrative context—one that acknowledges the intricate layers of power dynamics at play both within and beyond Western shores.
Ultimately, this reading experience was like a double-edged sword for me. While I sought clarity on the failings of global governance, I instead unearthed more questions. It’s a reminder that literature can provoke deep thought, but it can also leave us yearning for a more honest exploration of our shared reality. Perhaps that’s what makes Autocracy, Inc. compelling—it compels us to look beyond the surface and question whose voices truly remain unheard in this ongoing battle for democracy.