Using Comparative Cases to Examine Institutional Fragility and Student-Driven Resilience Strategies
Published: Sep 8, 2025
Contributor: Andreea Mosila
License: CC BY NC SA 4.0 license – Allows revisions and additions but forbids commercial use.
This module uses comparative case studies of democratic backsliding in Hungary and Turkey to help students critically examine threats to democratic institutions in the United States. Through readings, written reflection, and discussion, students analyze how legal tools and populist rhetoric can erode democratic norms; and how citizens and institutions can respond. The activity empowers students to distinguish between partisanship and systemic risk, fostering civic awareness and resilience in uncertain political environments.
- Instructor’s Overview
- Student Learning Outcomes
- Activity Description
- Reflection and Debrief Questions