1. Introduction—setting the stage PART I: DEMOCRATIC EROSION IN COMPARATIVE AND THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVE 2. Definitions of democracy and theories of democratization 3. Definitions and theories of democratic erosion 4. Uses and abuses of democratic institutions 5. Populism and demagoguery 6. Propaganda and restrictions on the press 7. Polarization 8. Scapegoating, paranoia and exclusion 9. Resistance PART II: CONTEMPORARY REGIONAL CASE STUDIES OF DEMOCRATIC EROSION 10. Latin America 11. Africa 12. Russia and Eastern Europe 13. Conclusion