APT Statement on January 6th Insurrection



The Association for Political Theory (APT) ardently condemns the attack on the U.S. Capitol building on January 6 by rioters aiming to overturn the results of a fair and free election. We are deeply concerned by violent attacks on democratic values, on truth, and on trust. We are especially concerned about the role played in these events by white supremacist groups, whose self-proclaimed mission includes denying the rights of fellow citizens.

As political theory scholars and educators, we recognize that robust debate is essential for the legitimacy of a democratic republic. Heated disagreement about the past, present, and future of the American experiment, including vehement protest, is to be expected and welcomed. However, last week’s actions on the part of anti-democracy extremists were not examples of legitimate disagreement or protest, but instead were acts aimed at shutting down, threatening, and even executing those who disagreed with them, including elected representatives doing their constitutional duty. The fact that this insurrection was encouraged by a sitting President of the United States is unprecedented and shocking. 

Events like these undermine the practice and study of inclusive action; indeed, they erode the very conditions for democratic politics. Encouraging open and inclusive discourse and critical thinking are key elements in the mission of the Association for Political Theory, and the Association calls upon all members to further that mission, and upon all American citizens to embrace and revitalize the values of democracy, truth, and respect for others. Accountability is the crux of representative political systems and ethical polities, and will certainly be a prominent subject of discussion over the coming weeks. We hope to see our members’ voices featured in those discussions, and to see informed, intelligent, and imaginative visions advanced for a polity that stands a chance of living up to its promise.

Sara Rushing, Co-President

Michaele Ferguson, Co-President