#United States #Dayton #Kettering Foundation #Democracy #Tim Snyder

Kettering Foundation Welcomes Prominent Scholars to Combat Threats to Democracy

The Charles F. Kettering Foundation recently announced the appointment of three distinguished scholars—Ruth Ben-Ghiat, William Kristol, and Timothy Snyder—as senior fellows. This initiative aims to bolster the foundation's ongoing efforts to safeguard democracy amidst growing concerns about civil rights and government accountability in the United States.

Context of the Appointments

In a political climate increasingly marked by threats to democratic norms, the Kettering Foundation recognizes the urgent need for thought leaders capable of addressing these challenges. The foundation's president and CEO, Sharon L. Davies, emphasized the importance of these appointments, stating, "Every day, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, William Kristol, and Timothy Snyder are helping the public recognize and respond to threats to democratic norms and principles before they become a new normal. Their expertise will illuminate the kind of actions that can dismantle a democracy and the strategies that can help preserve it."

Profiles of the New Senior Fellows

• - Ruth Ben-Ghiat: An esteemed professor at New York University, she specializes in history and Italian studies, focusing on the dynamics of fascism, authoritarianism, and democracy protection. Ben-Ghiat is renowned for her bestselling book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, which delves into the rise and fall of authoritarian leaders. Her Substack newsletter, Lucid, has gained immense popularity, boasting over 208,000 subscribers who tune in for insights on threats to democracy both in the U.S. and globally.

• - William Kristol: A prominent voice in American politics, Kristol is the editor-at-large of The Bulwark and leads the organization Defending Democracy Together. He has played pivotal roles throughout various presidential administrations, including those of Ronald Reagan and George H. W. Bush. Kristol is also known for founding The Weekly Standard, a significant voice in conservative media for over 20 years. His daily newsletter, Morning Shots, offers critical analysis and insights on contemporary political issues.

• - Timothy Snyder: A distinguished historian and current holder of the inaugural Temerty Chair in Modern European History at the University of Toronto, Snyder's scholarship often centers on Central Europe and the history of totalitarianism. He is the author of notable works, including On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century, and has cultivated a broad audience with his newsletter, Thinking About…, which has over 429,000 subscribers. His expertise makes him a trusted voice in discussions about authoritarianism and democratic resilience.

A Community of Distinguished Fellows

The addition of Ben-Ghiat, Kristol, and Snyder further enriches the Kettering Foundation's roster of fellows, which includes notable figures like Stacey Abrams, James Comey, and Judith Woodruff. These individuals were selected for their impactful contributions toward fostering democracy and addressing the urgent socio-political challenges of our time.

Kettering Foundation's Mission

Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, the Charles F. Kettering Foundation is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing democracy for all. Its mission emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement, governmental accountability, and opposition to authoritarianism. Through its initiatives and partnerships, the foundation strives to create a more inclusive environment conducive to democratic practices worldwide.

In conclusion, the recent appointments of Ruth Ben-Ghiat, William Kristol, and Timothy Snyder mark a significant step forward for the Kettering Foundation in its mission to uphold democratic values. Their collective expertise and insights will contribute critically to understanding and combating the democratic backsliding facing many societies today.