In "How Democracies Die," Steven Levitsky discusses how crises, particularly significant security threats like wars or terrorist attacks, can profoundly alter political dynamics. Such crises tend to rally public support around the government, often leading to increased approval for more authoritarian governance. This shift occurs as people's desire for safety may overshadow their commitment to democratic principles.

The author's insights highlight a critical aspect of political behavior: during times of fear, citizens may become more accepting of measures that undermine democratic norms. This tendency poses a challenge for democracy, as leaders can exploit crises to consolidate power and erode civil liberties in the name of security, thereby threatening the democratic fabric of society.