2nd Meeting: Antifascist Book Club Leader Guide

Welcome to the second meeting of your Antifascist Book Club! This guide will help you facilitate a discussion on On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, exploring the warning signs of authoritarianism and actionable steps for defending democracy. Use the discussion prompts and action steps to deepen your group's understanding and commitment.

📥 Download the expanded PDF version with additional details(Placeholder)
The PDF version includes extended discussion prompts, deeper analysis of key themes, and additional resources for continuing the conversation.

Purpose of This Meeting

This session centers on On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, a concise yet profound examination of the warning signs of authoritarianism and practical lessons drawn from historical instances of democratic backsliding.

Objectives of This Meeting

• Critically engage with the key lessons in On Tyranny.

• Draw connections between historical authoritarian regimes and contemporary political movements.

• Identify and discuss practical applications of Snyder’s recommendations.

• Establish a foundation for future readings in the Antifascist Book Club.

1. Welcome & Opening Reflections (10-15 min)

• Reintroduce the purpose of the book club and today’s discussion.

• Invite members to share initial impressions of On Tyranny.

• Have members identify one lesson that resonated with them.

2. Key Themes & Critical Analysis (20-30 min)

Discussion Areas:

• The Fragility of Democracy: How does Snyder characterize the threats to democratic institutions?

• Historical Precedents: What historical authoritarian movements does Snyder reference?

• Individual & Collective Action: What strategies does Snyder suggest for resisting authoritarianism?

Guiding Questions:

• Which of Snyder’s 20 lessons stood out as most urgent or relevant?

• How do historical case studies inform our understanding of modern authoritarianism?

3. Synthesizing Key Takeaways (10 min)

• Discuss how On Tyranny complements the What is Fascism? guide.

• Identify themes that will carry forward into future readings.

4. Looking Ahead & Actionable Steps (10 min)

• Establish commitments for applying On Tyranny’s lessons.

• Encourage members to engage with current events through an antifascist lens.

• Discuss next meeting’s reading assignment and thematic focus.

5. Conclusion & Next Steps (5-10 min)

• Thank members for their participation.

• Confirm the next meeting’s topic: Strongmen by Ruth Ben-Ghiat.

Continue the Journey

• Go to the 3rd Meeting Guide

• Return to the Leader Guides Index

📥 Download the expanded PDF version with additional details(Placeholder)

For more resources, visit the main Antifascist Book Club page.