Democracy in Five Minutes
In each episode of Democracy in Five Minutes, your host, Paul Manna, will explore a key aspect of democracy and what you can do to participate in and protect democratic processes. Occasional longer-form installments will incorporate ideas from additional guests. The opinions expressed on this podcast are Paul Manna’s (or those of his guests) and do not necessarily reflect the views of his employer. You can read more about Paul on his home page: https://sites.google.com/view/paulmanna.
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Episodes
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Friday Feb 13, 2026
Where does protest fit in the American democratic tradition? Does protesting work to advance a cause?
Friday Sep 05, 2025
Friday Sep 05, 2025
Why has Texas's decision last month to redraw its congressional district lines prompted controversy?
Friday Aug 15, 2025
Friday Aug 15, 2025
How does President Trump's use of the military in domestic law enforcement activities affect American democracy?
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
What lessons can we learn from contemporary celebrations of the Fourth of July?
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
Thursday Jun 26, 2025
This episode explores the role the US military plays in supporting American democracy.
Monday Jun 16, 2025
Monday Jun 16, 2025
In the US, to what do federal bureaucrats pledge their loyalty and how does their pledge support American democracy?
Friday Jun 06, 2025
Friday Jun 06, 2025
Why might upholding democratic principles sometimes make it difficult for bureaucracies to satisfy the people?
Friday May 30, 2025
Friday May 30, 2025
Why might it be difficult for the government to be efficient while simultaneously embracing democratic values?
Friday May 23, 2025
Friday May 23, 2025
Why is "habeas corpus" such a fundamental building block for democracies?
Friday May 16, 2025
Friday May 16, 2025
Last week we explored due process. We continue that discussion today by addressing who receives due process in the American democratic system.