In Autocracy, Inc., Anne Applebaum argues that modern autocracies are forming a collaborative, transnational network united by a shared desire for wealth and power with no liability. These regimes, including Russia, China, and Iran, actively support each other through sharing propaganda techniques, trading surveillance technology and weapons, and laundering money across borders, often exploiting the vulnerabilities within democratic systems.

Applebaum reveals how this “Autocracy, Inc.” undermines democratic institutions and values globally, not through formal alliances, but through pragmatic, transactional relationships. She emphasizes the role of enablers within democracies – lawyers, lobbyists, and financial institutions – who support the wealth and influence of these autocratic powers. The book serves as a stark warning and a call for democratic nations to recognize this interconnected threat and to develop strategies to defend their values and institutions.

Our group talked about what is happening in our country that sounds so much like what Applebaum wrote about. For years, Russian oligarchs have owned U.S. properties purchased from Donald Trump. Billionaires are getting richer every day while the average American is just getting by. So many people believe in conspiracy theories and don’t have the ability to know if what they are hearing is true or false. Applebaum writes that some people are attracted to conspiracy theories. Billionaires have much more say in our government than ordinary citizens, with the power and the financial resources to influence elected officials. As a country, we are far too dependent on trade with China, Russia, and other autocracies. Any change will require international cooperation.

Applebaum also has a podcast on rising autocracy in the United States: Anne Applebaum Podcast: Autocracy in America

Morning book club meets at 10:00 a.m. at the Highland Park Library, 1974 Ford Parkway, St. Paul.