"Illiberal democracy" is the term used by Viktor Orbán, the Prime Minister of Hungary, for his vision of a conservative, nationalist society. We will be studying how East Central Europe has been thrust into the forefront of the illiberal rebellion now taking place throughout the Euro-Atlantic world.

The course focuses on the "Visegrád Four" countries of Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. Other post-socialist countries and the former East Germany will, however, also be frequently discussed. The varied course topics deal with where illiberalism in the area comes from, how it feels, and why we should care. Students will also be introduced to the basics of Central Europe's history, culture, and political economy.