The article critiques the commonly used term 'crisis' in relation to climate change and democracy, arguing that these are not transient issues that will resolve with time. The author posits that labeling climate change as a crisis undermines the severity of the situation as it suggests a definitive end, which is misleading given the long-term impacts of human activities.

Additionally, the commentary delves into the so-called 'crisis of democracy,' suggesting that democracy has always faced challenges that stem from its very principles. The juxtaposition of freedom and equality is highlighted as a fundamental tension within democratic frameworks, where the pursuit of both often leads to conflicts and dissatisfaction among citizens. The piece emphasizes that compromises on these principles are usually unsatisfactory to all involved.

Furthermore, the article references historian Jörg Baberowski, who has written on the liberal democracy's challenges yet omits discussions on the far-right political party, AfD, implying a deliberate choice about which narratives of crisis are highlighted in public discourse. This omission raises questions about the inclusivity of debates surrounding democracy today, suggesting that not all perspectives are equally represented or acknowledged in media narratives.