Guest lesson democracy: 'We let students dismantle the rule of law themselves. Then they see what the consequences are'

Students at Driestar Wartburg school engage in a ProDemos lesson where they simulate the breakdown of democracy to understand the transition to authoritarianism. The lesson, titled 'Power Without Limits', allows students to experience how easily democratic principles can erode. They participate in activities that involve supporting a fictional politician's extreme measures to solve a housing crisis, leading to discussions about the implications of authoritarian governance. The lesson aims to highlight the gradual nature of democratic decline, emphasizing that many authoritarian leaders rise through elections. The interactive approach encourages students to reflect on their roles in a democracy and the consequences of their actions.