On Tyranny, Expanded Audio Edition: Updated with Twenty New Lessons from Russia’s War on Ukraine

Snyder (history, Yale Univ.; Our Malady) argues that history doesn’t repeat itself, but instead produces iterative patterns, the results of which are not unavoidable. Lessons taken from history can shift us into a new pattern, and possibly save democracy along the way. While some of his advice may not be applicable or achievable for some readers, particularly ones from marginalized groups, it still provides a wealth of food for thought. Snyder includes an addendum to his original text, recording his further observations on Russia’s war on Ukraine in an engaging cross between a lecture and a conversation. He covers concepts such as “politics of inevitability” vs. “politics of eternity” and spins a fascinating story of history, violence, and idealism. While the original text may provide an overwhelming amount of information, the addendum is where the audio edition really shines as Snyder provides a looser, more approachable conversation about a world in crisis.