Strongmen and the Assault on Democracy and Truth: Is It Time to Use the F-Word?
Event description
- Academic events
- Arts and entertainment
- Diversity and inclusion
- Free
- Open to the public
Ruth Ben-Ghiat is Professor of History and Italian Studies at New York University. She writes about fascism, authoritarianism, propaganda and democracy protection. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships, an advisor to Protect Democracy and an MSNBC opinion columnist. She appears frequently on MSNBC and other networks. She publishes Lucid, a Substack newsletter on threats to democracy in the U.S. and abroad. Her latest book, “Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present,” examines how illiberal leaders use corruption, violence, propaganda and machismo to stay in power and how resistance to them has unfolded over a century. She is a consultant for television and film productions, including Guillermo del Toro’s Academy Award-winning 2022 movie “Pinocchio,” which is set in Fascist Italy. She also advises civil society organizations that pursue democracy protection, and businesses and organizations that face challenges from autocratic interference around the world.
Moderators
John Carlson
Associate Professor of Religious Studies
Director
Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict
Tracy Fessenden
Professor of Religious Studies
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict
Logistics
This event is hosted by the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict and will take place on the ASU Tempe campus in the Pima Auditorium (Room 230) of the Memorial Union, and will be livestreamed through the Center's YouTube channel and on ASU Live. Whether you plan to participate via live stream or in-person, we appreciate you taking a moment to register. Your confirmation email will provide detailed directions to the venue, including parking information and key live-stream details. The lecture will consist of a moderated discussion with Center professors, followed by audience Q&A and a reception offering light refreshments.
Registration details:
- Free and open to all.
- Register to guarantee your seat.
- Classes and groups are welcomed to attend! Please contact us directly with your request.
