Do not obey in advance

Tim Snyder’s handbook for navigating authoritarianism, “On Tyranny,” was published in 2017. The book lays out a framework for understanding creeping tyranny, navigating within authoritarian systems, and firmly resisting from the beginning.

In this crucial opening chapter, Snyder argues that much of the power wielded by authoritarian regimes is often willingly surrendered by the populace through what he terms “anticipatory obedience.” This occurs when individuals, without being explicitly told, begin to preemptively act in ways they believe a more repressive government will desire. They adapt their behavior, compromise their values, and offer their services, all in anticipation of what the ascendant power might want.

When citizens instinctively conform and offer compliance before any direct command, they inadvertently teach the emerging power what it can achieve. Rulers might not initially know the extent to which people are willing to compromise their principles. These early, often seemingly small, acts of conformity can pave the way for a much more comprehensive and oppressive regime. Once these heedless acts of obedience become widespread, they become difficult, if not impossible, to reverse.

Snyder illustrates the example with Nazi Germany and communist Czechoslovakia, in which citizens both overtly and unconsciously change their behavior to confirm with authoritarian expectations, willingly following the dictator’s own path.

The antidote is vigilance and resistance, and the rejection of passive acceptance of current and future regime demands.

Next: Defend institutions