Democracy Paradox

A Social Sciences podcast by Justin Kempf

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Is it possible for a democracy to govern undemocratically? Can the people elect an undemocratic leader? Is it possible for democracy to bring about authoritarianism? And if so, what does this say about democracy? My name is Justin Kempf. Every week I talk to the brightest minds on subjects like international relations, political theory, and history to explore democracy from every conceivable angle. Topics like civil resistance, authoritarian successor parties, and the autocratic middle class challenge our ideas about democracy. Join me as we unravel new topics every week.

Recent Episodes

Sheri Berman Says the Democratic Recession Was Not a Surprise
Published: April 29, 2026
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Christopher Walker Revisits Sharp Power
Published: April 15, 2026
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Hugo Drochon Says Elites Are Inevitable
Published: April 1, 2026
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Milan Svolik Asks: Do Voters Really Support Democracy?
Published: March 18, 2026
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Minxin Pei Warns China Has Descended into Totalitarianism
Published: March 4, 2026
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Erica Frantz says Personalist Parties are Democracy's Latest Threat
Published: February 18, 2026
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Javier Pérez Sandoval Reveals Democracy’s Hidden Vulnerability: The Hollowing of the State
Published: February 4, 2026
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Kate Baldwin Explains Why Christianity Fights for Democracy in Africa
Published: January 21, 2026
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Natalie Wenzell Letsa Describes the Autocratic Voter
Published: January 7, 2026
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Russell Muirhead Warns Ungoverning Threatens Democracy
Published: December 24, 2025
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