The Jordan Harbinger Show 718: Barbara F. Walter | How Civil Wars Start (And How to Stop Them)
Aug 30, 2022
Barbara F. Walter, an expert in international affairs and author of a bestselling book on civil wars, dives deep into the alarming escalation of political division in the U.S. She discusses the warning signs of civil conflict and the factors that make societies vulnerable to such turmoil. Walter explains the concept of anocracy and highlights the dangers of identity politics and factionalism. She emphasizes the need for civic engagement and understanding to combat extremist ideologies and prevent violence, drawing parallels with global civil conflicts.
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Who Starts Civil Wars
- Declining dominant groups, not the most oppressed, tend to initiate civil wars.
- This is due to a perceived loss of power and status, coupled with the resources and organization to act.
Faction Development
- Geographic segregation and lack of interaction contribute to dehumanization and "othering."
- Social media algorithms accelerate division by prioritizing emotionally charged, divisive content.
Drivers of Polarization
- Gerrymandering, primary systems, billionaires, and social media contribute to political polarization.
- These factors amplify extreme views and create an environment conducive to factionalism.
