Understanding the Crisis of Democracy

The speaker discusses the crisis of democracy, highlighting declining voter turnout and trust in political institutions. Through a narrative about blank ballots, the speaker questions the effectiveness of transparency and openness in restoring trust. The talk explores five revolutions that have shaped democracy, noting both positive and negative impacts. The speaker emphasizes the complexity of transparency, suggesting it may lead to a society based on mistrust rather than trust.

What is the speaker's main concern about the current hope in transparency and openness?

• They are universally accepted as the best solutions.

• They might not be effective in addressing the crisis of democracy.

• They will completely restore trust in democratic institutions.

• They are irrelevant to the current political climate.

In the fictional election scenario, what was the significant action taken by the voters?

• They voted overwhelmingly for a new party.

• They protested outside the polling stations.

• They boycotted the election entirely.

• They submitted blank ballots to express dissatisfaction.

Which revolution is credited with putting the individual at the center of politics?

• The internet revolution

• The end of communism in 1989

• The cultural and social revolution of the 1960s and 1970s

• The market revolution of the 1980s

What is a major issue associated with the market revolution of the 1980s?

• It diminished the role of technology in politics.

• It resulted in the collapse of global markets.

• It caused a significant increase in societal inequality.

• It led to a decrease in individual freedoms.

How did the end of the Cold War affect the social contract in Western Europe?

• It made the elites more dependent on the people.

• It strengthened the bond between elites and the public.

• It liberated the elites from fearing the public.

• It had no significant impact on the social contract.

What is one negative impact of the internet revolution on politics?

• It has created echo chambers and political ghettos.

• It has reduced access to political information.

• It has increased voter turnout significantly.

• It has made political communication more transparent.

What lesson did political consultants learn from brain sciences?

• Emphasize ideological consistency.

• Avoid using media in political campaigns.

• Focus on policy programs over emotions.

• Manipulate emotions rather than discuss ideas.

What is a potential downside of transparency in politics according to the speaker?

• It eliminates the need for political accountability.

• It can lead to a society based on mistrust.

• It simplifies the political decision-making process.

• It ensures complete honesty in government.

How might transparency affect political candidates' willingness to run for office?

• It encourages more people to run for office.

• It discourages talented individuals from running.

• It simplifies the election process.

• It has no impact on political candidacy.

What is the speaker's view on the relationship between transparency and trust in institutions?

• Transparency is a management of mistrust, not a restoration of trust.

• Transparency always leads to increased public trust.

• Transparency has no effect on institutional trust.

• Transparency directly restores trust in institutions.