The Future of Democracy: Fighting Authoritarianism with A.C. Grayling
Sydney Writers' Festival Live and Local
The Future of Democracy: Fighting Authoritarianism
Professor of Philosophy and author A.C. Grayling outlines the fragility of democracy and the freedoms we take for granted and risk losing in For The People: Fighting Authoritarianism, Saving Democracy.
In recent years, the democratic foundations and civil liberties of Western nations that once seemed unshakeable have been shown to be remarkably fragile – vulnerable to authoritarianism, the whims of the wealthy and powerful and the erosion of civil liberties. As with previous works like Who Owns the Moon? and Discriminations, A.C. interrogates complex political realities and offers bold solutions.
Hear from a Festival favourite as he asks the critical questions of our time, followed by a discussion chaired by Nick Bryant (The Forever War) and Rosalind Dixon (The People's Guide to the Australian Constitution).
Breakfast will be provided, library doors will be open from 7:50am.
The Future of Democracy series, hosted by Nick Bryant and Rosalind Dixon, is a collaboration between Sydney Writers’ Festival and the Resilient Democracy Lab at UNSW Sydney.
Sydney Writers' Festival - Live & Local 2026
Sydney Writers' Festival is Australia's largest celebration of books and ideas, bringing the world’s finest authors and esteemed thinkers together for insightful and exhilarating conversations and discussions.
Join us for Live & Local 2026, streamed live by Sydney Writers' Festival and delivered locally to the Subiaco Library on Thursday 21, Friday 22, Saturday 23, and Sunday 24 May. Prepare to be invigorated and engaged by conversations, debates and discussions featuring some of the world’s finest writers and thinkers.
Additional information
Getting to the event:
Subiaco Library has limited parking bays available. For more information on getting around Subiaco visit the city’s website.
Access and inclusion:
Subiaco Library is wheelchair accessible for additional information please contact Subiaco Library on 9237 9300.
Ticket information:
You are not required to bring a ticket with you. In the case of a booked-out event, names may be checked at the door.
Further information:
For more events and programs at Subiaco Library visit the City of Subiaco events calendar, follow the Subiaco Library on Facebook or join the Cultural Services e-newsletter database by emailing library@subiaco.wa.gov.au