What is democracy? Who is free? Does it really matter if American democracy falls?

In the first of this three-part series, we dive into the history of democracy, its birth and the United States' unique take on this form of government. The episode takes a look at some uniquely American challenges that limit American democracy such as hyperpartisanship, negative partisanship, institutional constraints (gerrymandering, the Electoral College, voter registration) public apathy and cynicism, influence of money in politics, and the public’s media consumption habits.

By looking at the recent past and failed democracies in other nations, the episode also explores what comes next if American democracy falls.

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