Democracies in Peril: Discussion & Social in Georgetown

In this event, we aim to explore how EA principles can contribute to the ongoing debate on democracy’s future. This discussion seeks to apply EA’s tools to diagnose the roots of polarization and propose initiatives and reforms that are inclusive, fact-based, and resistant to sensationalism, ultimately protecting the democratic fabric of societies.

The evening will consist of three short presentations by expert analysts (TBD) at the Georgetown Neighborhood Library, followed by food and drinks at YELLOW nearby.

November 14, 2024, at 6:15 PM

Georgetown Neighborhood Library, Meeting Room 1

3260 R St NW

Washington, DC 20007

Followed by food and drinks at:

YELLOW Georgetown

1524 Wisconsin Ave NW

Washington, DC 20007

“ In a democracy, citizens pass judgment on their government, and if they are kept in the dark about what their government is doing, they cannot be in a position to make well-grounded decisions.”

Peter Singer (2012)

Over the past decade, liberal representative democracy has faced escalating global challenges. Election results have been contested, democratic institutions weakened, and minority representation questioned. Reactionary movements have surged worldwide, affecting both nascent and established democracies once regarded as models of governance.

2024 marks a pivotal year for democracy, with crucial elections across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, where populist leaders and liberal forces vie for power. The upcoming U.S. presidential election has substantial implications for both domestic rights and international alliances. The outcome will influence U.S. citizens’ rights, the structure of the political system, and the global ideological balance between populism and liberalism.

In this increasingly polarized climate, the line between factual analysis and sensationalism is blurred, with political factions using media and academic institutions to push their agendas. Amid this uncertainty, there is a pressing need to use rational frameworks that prioritize evidence over ideology.

Effective altruism (EA), a movement advocating data-driven decision-making to maximize global good, offers a new approach to analyzing and responding to these challenges.

If you have any questions about the event, please send an email to:

• Arthur Wright (Head of Community for EA DC), [email protected]
• Amine Ben Naceur (event organizer - Operations Manager @ Civil Renewables Inc.), [email protected]

Host or Publisher Effective Altruism DC