After considering the readings and my own gut feelings, I feel that although in America Democracy will not implode any time soon, I feel that there are many aspects that may be eroding. That being said, I do agree that outside of the United States and other stable western countries, democracy is not as solid as it may seem. In the United States, especially after the election of Donald Trump, the illiberal trends mentioned in the readings are apparent. The polarization of the country is disconcerting considering the liberal doctrines this country stands on. I think that in less stable countries where democracy does not have as solid of a base, a similar polarization would cause the government to collapse. I also tend to agree with the point mentioned in the readings that democratic positions are filled with the wealthy and that in order to run for office one needs the necessary funds. This point is quite interesting because no matter how obvious this seems, there is no real way to combat the wealth gap in politics. Bernie Sanders attempted to bridge this gap I think, but in the end failed. It is possible that the economic elites will always rule in the current democratic system. That being said is it truly a democratic system if only the elites can actually hold power?