Political polarization and extremism are much more fragile than we realize, as long as we maintain freedom of speech, rule of law, market competition, and free and fair elections.
Sadly, it may destroy much more than just itself in the process. Because of the perverse incentives of authoritarianism, it is likely to continue to drive this direction too.
If we lose our basic institutions of a free society and actually become authoritarian, then yes. But, if we don't, then there's a limit to how much damage even an authoritarian-minded leader can do. That's my thesis (and my hope) anyway.
Sadly, it may destroy much more than just itself in the process. Because of the perverse incentives of authoritarianism, it is likely to continue to drive this direction too.
If we lose our basic institutions of a free society and actually become authoritarian, then yes. But, if we don't, then there's a limit to how much damage even an authoritarian-minded leader can do. That's my thesis (and my hope) anyway.