DISSENT

SEPTEMBER 8. 2025

Falling Leaves

How do we know when democracy is gone?

A Permanent State of Exception in El Salvador

In cooperation with gangs and with massive popular support, Nayib Bukele is cracking down on dissidents and massively expanding the state’s carceral apparatus.

Ecology in an Era of Fragmentation

As a species, we produce gardeners, devoted caretakers, and also arsonists.

The Fabric of Capitalism

What can we learn about the history of capitalism by following slavery's supply chains?

¿Por Qué MAGA?

Progressives will only make lasting progress with Latino voters if they examine not just why Trump was appealing, but also why the left was not.

The Case for a Third Reconstruction

The scale and depth of the attack on our institutions means that there is no simple way for a pro-democracy coalition to flip the lights back on after Trump. We need transformative thinking.

To Outlive Tyranny

Flesh and blood alone cannot halt the advance of iron and steel. To stop the tanks, we need people to place blocks on the road and throw sand into the gears.

How Democracies Fall Apart

An interview with Adam Przeworski.

The Mexican Model

Does Morena’s success offer a blueprint for the left? An exchange.

Lula’s Unfinished Democracy

The Brazilian president once argued that democracy will founder where inequality reigns. Today, he sees fighting inequality as democracy’s animating mission.

The Strongman Illusion

Turkey’s slide into authoritarianism was facilitated by collaborators, enablers, and an inept opposition.

Solace and Solidarity on the Factory Floor

Wang Bing’s Youth is an epic work of people’s history writ small.

Who’s Afraid of “Settler Colonialism”?

If we dismiss concepts because of particular examples of misuse, we encourage the repression of discomforting histories and ideas.

The Conquerors of Tomorrow

The tragic inheritance of the Shoah is that the victims of violence are often its next perpetrators.