Do you really know? What is an anocracy?
Jan 22, 2026
The podcast explores the concept of anocracy, defined as a blend of democracy and autocracy. With a focus on the U.S. Capitol invasion on January 6, the discussion highlights Barbara Walter's alarming assertion that the U.S. now exhibits anocratic traits. The origins of the term and Walter's extensive research on global conflicts provide context. Notably, the potential for civil war in anocracies is emphasized, suggesting they are three times more likely to experience such turmoil. Various examples of existing anocracies are also examined.
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What Anocracy Means
- Anocracy describes states that are neither fully democratic nor fully autocratic.
- Barbara F. Walter applies this term to the US after January 6th, arguing institutions weakened.
Walter's Comparative Background
- Barbara F. Walter, a CIA advisor and professor, studied conflicts worldwide before focusing on the US.
- She used her experience from Lebanon, Syria, Sri Lanka and Nicaragua to assess US instability.
Polity Index Rating For The US
- Walter used the Polity index to rate the US at +5 at the end of Trump's mandate.
- That score marks the US as a partial democracy for the first time in 200 years.
