Collective Memory and Democratization in Germany, Argentina and Chile.

The article explores the connection between collective memory and democracy in Germany, Argentina, and Chile. Democracy allows memory to flourish through open and public discussions of the past. Memory, in turn, helps improves the stability and quality of democracy by fostering transparency, invigorating the civil society and vigilance, re-building societal trust, weakening authoritarian enclaves, and increasing the legitimacy of the government. However, balance must be achieved so as not to alienate former regime supporters and officials.