Historian Roderick Beaton warns that current political turmoil shows striking similarities to the 1930s, highlighting rising populism and threats to democracy.
In an interview with TO BHMA International Edition, esteemed historian Roderick Beaton starts with a clear yet alarming observation: today's political unrest reflects significant parallels with the 1930s. He notes the rise of populism, polarization, the erosion of democratic institutions, and pressure on the rule of law, drawing comparisons to the fragile interwar years when democracy in Europe was still young and vulnerable.
Beaton clarifies that he does not believe history repeats itself mechanically, nor does he argue that a new global conflict is unavoidable. However, he cautions that certain patterns are resurfacing, indicating that democracy has never been the 'norm' in European history but rather an exception. Historically speaking, the rule of law, first articulated in ancient Greece as isonomia or equality before the law, has been the more consistent principle in European governance.
Overall, Beaton’s argument serves as a reminder of Europe’s checkered past with democracy and the current precarious state of political affairs, suggesting that the lessons from history might be more relevant now than ever. As democratic norms are increasingly under threat, understanding and safeguarding the principles of the rule of law becomes essential to prevent history from repeating its darker chapters.
