You're invited to our next FoCo Pro-Democracy Book Club session as we begin our new selection: Surviving Autocracy by Masha Gessen.
This book offers a sharp, deeply informed examination of how democratic norms unravel and what it takes to recognize and resist that process. Gessen draws from history, journalism, and lived experience to help us understand how autocracy takes root not just through big moments, but through gradual shifts in language, institutions, and culture. Whether you’re returning or joining us for the first time, this is a great place to jump in. Our discussions are grounded in curiosity, connection, and the shared belief that engaging together with the world around us matters.
Part 1 – Language (p~1-90). We’ll explore:
- How language is used to normalize autocracy
- What Gessen means by the “erosion of shared reality”
- The role of absurdity and distraction in controlling public dialogue
Discussion Prompts:
- Gessen argues that “the first move of autocrats is to corrupt language.” What examples from the book and from real life stand out to you?
- Have you noticed shifts in how people talk about politics, truth, or institutions? What do those shifts signal?
- What’s the connection between language and power? Between lies and fear?
- How do we personally resist linguistic manipulation at work, online, in conversation?
What can we do between now and June? We'll reflect on:
- What insights from today’s conversation demand action?
- What can we try (individually or together) before our next session?
- Is there an opportunity to speak up, write, show up, or change something small in our daily lives?
We'll be meeting in the Medium Meeting Room at the Old Town Library in Fort Collins.
