The Threat to Democracy: From Pole Vaulting to Political Backsliding

The Threat to Democracy: From Pole Vaulting to Political Backsliding

In recent news, world pole vault champion Katie Moon faced backlash for sharing a gold medal with Australian vaulter Nina Kennedy. Critics called them "shameful" and "pathetic" for their decision, but Moon took to Instagram to defend their choice. She explained that pole vaulting is not just a physical endurance event, but also a dangerous one. Athletes can suffer from minor tweaks to horrific accidents, especially when fatigue sets in. Moon and Kennedy had already competed for almost four hours in intense heat, and walking away healthy with a gold medal was a no-brainer for them.

This incident highlights the importance of listening to our bodies and knowing our limitations. Contrary to popular belief, a "win at all cost" mindset is not necessary to have a champion's mentality. Moon's decision to share the gold medal with Kennedy demonstrates a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that goes beyond individual achievements. It is a reminder that competition should not overshadow the well-being and safety of athletes.

Interestingly, this concept of competition and its potential negative effects can also be seen in the decline of democracy around the world. Max Fisher, a journalist covering the decline of democracy, points out that the erosion of democratic values is happening incrementally but steadily. Leaders rise within democracies, promising to defeat internal threats, and end up slowly tearing down the democratic institutions that uphold the system. Each step may not seem drastic, but over time, the system tilts toward autocracy.

This pattern of democratic backsliding is not limited to a particular country or region. According to a democracy monitoring group called V-Dem, more democracies are in decline today than at any other point in the last century. Fisher describes this as a bottom-up backlash against the demands of modern liberal democracy. It is fueled by societal polarization, a desire for populist outsiders, and a suppression of the "other side" of social or partisan divides.

The United States, in particular, fits into this global pattern of democratic backsliding. Society has become polarized, leading to a desire for populist leaders who promise to confront perceived threats. These leaders often assert a vision of democracy that favors their side and seek to undermine democratic institutions and norms. Political parties and establishment gatekeepers weaken or become co-opted, allowing for the erosion of democratic checks and balances.

One factor that has contributed to this erosion is the role of social media. Initially seen as a democratizing force, social media platforms have been criticized for amplifying misinformation, rumors, echo chambers, and hate speech. These platforms are not neutral; they are designed to manipulate users' experiences and change their behaviors and beliefs. This manipulation can lead to increased anger, extremism, intolerance, and distrust.

The impact of social media on political activism is also worth noting. While the number of mass protest events has increased with the advent of social media, the success rate of these movements has decreased. This could be attributed to the divisive nature of online platforms, which can hinder effective collective action and unity.

In light of these challenges, it is crucial to take action to safeguard democracy. Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Foster dialogue and understanding: Encourage open and respectful conversations that bridge ideological divides. This can help reduce polarization and promote empathy and understanding.

2. Support independent journalism: A free press is essential for holding those in power accountable and providing accurate information to the public. Subscribing to reputable news sources and supporting investigative journalism can help combat the spread of misinformation.

3. Promote digital literacy: Educate yourself and others on media literacy and critical thinking skills. By being aware of the manipulative tactics used on social media platforms, individuals can make more informed decisions and resist the divisive effects of online echo chambers.

In conclusion, the incident involving pole vault champions sharing a gold medal and the decline of democracy around the world both highlight the importance of unity, empathy, and understanding. Whether in sports or politics, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being of individuals and the preservation of democratic values. By taking action to promote dialogue, support independent journalism, and enhance digital literacy, we can work towards a more inclusive and resilient democratic society.