Understanding Democratic Disenchantment in Rich and Poor Countries

This year, more voters than ever before will take part in national elections. At the same time, democratic norms and policies are under threat globally. Why is this happening, and what should be done about it? In a new episode of Talking Policy, host Lindsay Shingler talks with Dr. Pranab Bardhan, a distinguished professor emeritus of economics at UC Berkeley, about his book, A World of Insecurity: Democratic Disenchantment in Rich and Poor Countries. Bardhan shows that both cultural and economic insecurity are contributing to the trend of democratic backsliding, and offers perspectives on policies that would make citizens of democracies more secure while protecting the processes and norms of democratic governance. This interview was conducted on April 16, 2024. The transcript has been edited for length and clarity.