How "America" Dies (or Doesn't): Democratic Backsliding in the US
In this lecture, Professor David Barker (American University, Washington, D.C.) dissects these trends and diagnoses the prospects for recovery on the post-Trump horizon.
Stevenson Trust, Social Sciences hub
Date: Wednesday 30 September 2026
Time: 18:00 - 19:30
Venue: Humanities Lecture Theatre, The Gilbert Scott Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, Online
Category: Public lectures, Social events, Academic events, Student events, Alumni events
Speaker: Professor David Barker
Perhaps the most dramatic—and alarming—example of democratic backsliding is occurring in the United States. Eroding trust, crippling polarisation, crumbling civil liberties, and corroding social capital are diminishing electoral competition, empowering executive overreach (including internationally), erasing civic norms and inciting political violence.
In this lecture, Professor David Barker (American University, Washington, D.C.) dissects these trends and diagnoses the prospects for recovery on the post-Trump horizon.