History's Dumbest Mass Movements in Support of...Something Dumb

Yes, this starts off briefly about Trump but bear with me a moment, it gets interesting. Then I'll get back to how this relates to the madness we see today on the right. 

So I was wondering...HAVE there been even stupider movements of support for dumb things before Donald Trump? His "MaGA" ("Make america Great Again", with a little "a" as they have so disrespected America, and yes it's necessary to indicate that at every instance)...is pretty dumb. Project 2025 supports that contention. More here about Trump's mental issues.

The GOP propping up a convicted felon, twice impeached, seditionist, who fomented an insurrection, a career criminal, is truly unbelievable. It truly is now the Trump Cult of Personality Party.

Determining the "dumbest" massive support movement in history is subjective and depends heavily on one's perspective and criteria for judgment. However, some movements are often criticized for their lack of foresight, harmful consequences, or based on the perceived irrationality of their goals. Here are a few examples that are commonly mentioned in discussions about misguided mass movements:

Tulip Mania (1634-1637): This was a period during the Dutch Golden Age when the prices of tulip bulbs reached extraordinarily high levels and then suddenly collapsed. People invested vast amounts of money into tulip bulbs, believing they would continue to increase in value. The bubble burst, leading to financial ruin for many.

Tulip Mania is often considered the "dumbest" massive support movement due to its extreme irrationality, the trivial nature of the commodity involved, and the rapid, devastating financial impact on those who participated.

Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933): The nationwide constitutional ban on the production, importation, transportation, and sale of alcoholic beverages was intended to reduce crime and corruption, solve social problems, and improve health and hygiene. Instead, it led to the rise of organized crime, illegal speakeasies, and was eventually repealed due to its ineffectiveness and unintended consequences.

The South Sea Bubble (1720): Similar to Tulip Mania, this was a speculative bubble in Britain where shares in the South Sea Company skyrocketed based on overinflated claims of wealth and profits from trade with South America. When the bubble burst, many investors lost their fortunes, leading to widespread financial ruin.

The Children's Crusade (1212): This was a disastrous attempt by thousands of European children to peacefully convert Muslims in the Holy Land to Christianity. Many of these children either died from starvation and disease or were sold into slavery, never reaching their destination.

The War on Drugs: Initiated in the United States in the early 1970s, this movement aimed to reduce illegal drug trade and use through strict enforcement and heavy penalties. Critics argue it has been largely ineffective, disproportionately targeting minority communities, and has contributed to mass incarceration without significantly reducing drug addiction rates.

Each of these movements had massive support at their peaks but are often viewed retrospectively as misguided or poorly executed, leading to significant negative consequences.

Obviously, we cannot forget the MaGA movement in America that we are still suffering under from an extremist Right-wing Republican Party who are calling any or all others all the things they are or are doing, as the ones doing those things. 

It is a form of madness that has grown out of a cult of personality for Donald Trump who is a pathological liar and has Narcissistic Personality Disorder (DSM5).

The "Make America Great Again" (MaGA) movement, associated primarily with former President Donald Trump, is another example that has garnered significant support and controversy. Supporters view MaGA as a patriotic effort to restore America's economic strength, national security, and traditional values. Critics, however, argue that the movement has been divisive and regressive.

Criticisms of the MaGA movement often focus on:

Polarization: The movement has been accused of deepening political and social divides in the United States. The rhetoric used by some of its leaders and supporters has been criticized for being inflammatory and divisive.

False Claims and Conspiracy Theories: The movement has been linked to the spread of false information and conspiracy theories, notably surrounding the 2020 presidential election. Claims of widespread voter fraud, despite a lack of evidence, culminated in the January 6, 2021, storming of the U.S. Capitol, which many view as a significant attack on democratic institutions.

Impact on Democracy: Some argue that the MaGA movement has undermined democratic norms and institutions by challenging the integrity of elections and attacking the media and judiciary.

Racial and Ethnic Tensions: Critics claim that the movement has exacerbated racial and ethnic tensions, citing instances of rhetoric and policies perceived as discriminatory against immigrants, people of color, and other minority groups.

Supporters of MaGA, on the other hand, often highlight achievements they attribute to the movement, such as:

Economic Policies: Many supporters believe that the movement's policies led to a stronger economy, job creation, and tax cuts that benefited many Americans.

National Security: Advocates argue that MaGA policies improved national security by strengthening immigration enforcement and renegotiating trade deals. Isolationism never does that.

Patriotism and National Pride: For many supporters, MaGA represents a resurgence of American pride and a commitment to the country's founding principles and values. This is a misnomer for what is actually Christian Nationalism.

The MaGA movement remains highly influential and continues to shape American politics. Whether it is viewed as "dumb" or misguided depends largely on one's political perspective and values.

Analyzing the reality of the contentions made by MaGA supporters involves looking at available data, evidence, and expert analysis. Here’s a closer look at the key points often highlighted by MaGA supporters:

1. Economic Policies

Claim: The MaGA movement led to a stronger economy, job creation, and beneficial tax cuts.

Reality:

• Economic Growth: The U.S. economy did see significant growth during the first three years of the Trump administration. The stock market reached record highs, and unemployment rates fell to historically low levels. However, some of this growth continued trends from the Obama administration's recovery from the Great Recession.
• Tax Cuts: The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 did lower corporate tax rates and individual income tax rates for many Americans. Critics argue that these tax cuts disproportionately benefited the wealthy and increased the federal deficit by reducing government revenue.
• Job Creation: Job creation was robust, with significant gains in employment. However, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 caused a severe economic downturn, with massive job losses and a spike in unemployment.

2. National Security

Claim: MaGA policies improved national security by strengthening immigration enforcement and renegotiating trade deals.

Reality:

• Immigration Enforcement: The Trump administration implemented stricter immigration policies, including travel bans from certain countries, increased deportations, and the construction of a border wall with Mexico. These measures were controversial and faced legal challenges and widespread criticism for their humanitarian impact.
• Trade Deals: The administration renegotiated NAFTA, resulting in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). While supporters hailed it as a victory for American workers, critics argued that the changes were modest and did not fundamentally transform trade relationships. The administration also engaged in a trade war with China, imposing tariffs that led to retaliatory tariffs, affecting various sectors of the economy.

3. Patriotism and National Pride

Claim: MaGA represents a resurgence of American pride and a commitment to the country's founding principles and values.

Reality:

• Patriotism: MaGA supporters often express a strong sense of national pride and desire to return to what they view as traditional American values. This resonates with many who feel left behind by globalization and social changes. (Nazis were Christian Nationalists)
• Divisiveness: The movement has also been associated with rhetoric and actions that many perceive as exclusionary or discriminatory. This has led to increased polarization and tension within the country.

Additional Considerations

• Impact on Democracy: The MaGA movement has been criticized for undermining democratic norms. The refusal to accept the 2020 election results and the subsequent Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, are seen as significant threats to democratic institutions. While they claim America is a Constitutional Republic, it is a whistle call, code in order to misdirect and cover for nationalism (domestically) and isolationism (internationally) since even with their contentions, America is still a democracy or a democratic constitutional republic. It's divisive and obfuscatory.
• Racial and Ethnic Tensions: Policies and rhetoric associated with MaGA have been linked to increased racial and ethnic tensions. Critics argue that the movement has fostered an environment where hate crimes and discriminatory attitudes can flourish.

In summary, while there are aspects of the MaGA movement that supporters view positively, these contentions are often contested and have complex, multifaceted realities. Economic achievements are weighed against increased deficits and inequality, national security measures are criticized for their humanitarian impact, and expressions of patriotism are seen as divisive by many.

While Tulip Mania was perhaps the dumbest, MaGA runs a pretty close race, especially if it brings America down.

MaGA Movement

Dumbness:

• Polarizing Rhetoric and Actions: The movement has been associated with spreading misinformation, conspiracy theories, and polarizing rhetoric.
• Ignoring Expert Consensus: Many of the movement's positions, such as skepticism towards climate change and public health measures, often ignore or contradict scientific and expert consensus.

Destructiveness:

• Political and Social Divides: The movement has contributed to significant political and social polarization in the United States.
• Erosion of Democratic Norms: Actions such as challenging the legitimacy of elections and the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, have undermined democratic institutions and norms.
• Global Impact: The movement’s influence has had ripple effects worldwide, affecting international relations and inspiring similar movements in other countries.

If we work hard, we can clean up this slow-moving coup form of domestic terrorism and sedition. We've seen it nearly 100 years ago: Ultra (Rachel Maddow podcast, very well done and accurate).

Now about this MaGA movement...

Theodor W. Adorno and his colleagues in their 1950 book, "The Authoritarian Personality":

"The authoritarian personality seeks to minimize doubt & insecurity by clinging to rigid & absolute beliefs & by submitting to authority figures who seem to offer certainty and stability."

General statistics on the relationship between strict, religious, authoritarian upbringings and criminal or abusive behavior are complex and multifaceted. Here are some key points and studies that explore this topic:

1. Childhood Trauma and Abuse: Numerous studies have shown that experiencing strict, authoritarian parenting, especially when combined with physical or emotional abuse, can lead to increased risk of criminal behavior in adulthood. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study by the CDC highlights that individuals with high ACE scores are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including criminal activities.

2. Religious Upbringing and Crime: Research on the influence of a strict religious upbringing on criminal behavior is mixed. Some studies suggest that certain types of religious upbringing, particularly those that are authoritarian and punitive, may contribute to increased aggression and delinquency. For instance, a study published in the journal Child Abuse & Neglect found that authoritarian religious parenting styles were associated with higher levels of aggression in children.

3. Authoritarian Parenting and Delinquency: Authoritarian parenting, characterized by high demands and low responsiveness, has been linked to higher rates of delinquency and criminal behavior. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Youth and Adolescence found a significant correlation between authoritarian parenting and increased delinquency in children.

4. Longitudinal Studies: Longitudinal studies have tracked individuals over time to assess the long-term effects of strict, authoritarian, and religious upbringings. The Dunedin Multidisciplinary Health and Development Study, which follows a cohort from New Zealand, has found that harsh and authoritarian parenting practices are associated with a range of negative outcomes, including criminal behavior.

5. Cultural and Contextual Factors: It's important to note that the impact of strict, religious, authoritarian upbringings can vary widely depending on cultural and contextual factors. For example, in some communities, strict religious practices may provide social support and a sense of belonging that mitigates the potential for criminal behavior.

6. Gender Differences: Some studies suggest that the effects of strict, authoritarian upbringings on criminal behavior may differ by gender. For instance, a study published in the journal Aggressive Behavior found that authoritarian parenting was more strongly associated with aggression and delinquency in boys than in girls.

While there is evidence to suggest that strict, religious, and authoritarian upbringings can contribute to criminal or abusive behavior, it's important to consider these findings within a broader context. Multiple factors, including genetics, environment, and individual resilience, also play significant roles in the development of such behaviors.

Does that not explain to some degree, MaGA and those who support a person who has psychological problems?

The phenomenon of MaGA ("Make america Great Again") supporters and their alignment with a figure like Donald Trump, who has been often described as having psychological and personality traits that some find concerning, can indeed be partially understood through psychological and sociological lenses. While not everyone who supports MaGA fits into a single psychological profile, several factors can help explain the strong support base, including aspects of upbringing, psychological tendencies, and social dynamics:

1. Authoritarian Personality: The concept of the authoritarian personality, first introduced by Theodor Adorno and his colleagues in 1950, describes individuals who have a preference for order, conformity, and strong leadership. People with this personality type often come from strict, authoritarian upbringings and may be drawn to leaders who promise to restore order and discipline.

2. Social Identity Theory: This theory suggests that individuals derive a sense of identity and self-esteem from their membership in social groups. For some, the MaGA movement provides a strong group identity, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose. This is particularly compelling for those who feel marginalized or left behind by social and economic changes.

3. Perceived Threats: Research in political psychology has shown that perceived threats (whether economic, cultural, or social) can drive people towards authoritarian leaders. Trump's rhetoric often emphasizes threats to American values, security, and prosperity, which can resonate strongly with individuals who feel their way of life is under siege.

4. Religious and Cultural Conservatism: Many MaGA supporters come from backgrounds that value traditional religious and cultural norms. Trump's policies and statements often align with conservative viewpoints, particularly on issues like immigration, national sovereignty, and law and order.

5. Cognitive Dissonance and Rationalization: Supporters may experience cognitive dissonance when confronted with information that conflicts with their beliefs. To resolve this discomfort, they may rationalize or dismiss negative information about Trump, focusing instead on his alignment with their values or the promises he makes.

6. Charismatic Leadership: Trump's charismatic and often polarizing style appeals to those who are attracted to strong, decisive leaders. His ability to connect with his base through rallies, social media, and direct communication reinforces loyalty and support.

7. Psychological Needs: Some psychological theories suggest that people have inherent needs for security, order, and control. In times of uncertainty or instability, individuals may gravitate towards leaders who promise to meet these needs, even if the leader exhibits problematic behavior.

While these factors can help explain the appeal of the MaGA movement and support for Trump, it's important to recognize that this is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. Not all supporters fit neatly into these categories, and motivations can vary widely among individuals. Understanding these dynamics requires a nuanced approach that considers psychological, social, and cultural dimensions.

I truly wish us all well. Especially those of us not MaGA who deserve better. And those who ARE MaGA will one day regret their actions today as they begin eventually to see more and more what they are doing and go through the Biblical experience of Peter in his denial of Jesus, their "Christ" who they now profess to follow and yet, who Jesus himself would not recognize how his teachings have anything to do with MaGA or evangelical Christian Nationalism. 

A form of "Christianity" that has more to do with Jesus' reference to government than anything to do with His teachings:

"Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21, ESV). MaGA and Christian Nationalism is more about forcing religion INTO government than it is about people, humane relations with one another, and decency. 

By forcing their religion into our government it absorbs by necessity, toxic capitalism, and things that are associated with it. That's the problem because that leads to other things that fit perfectly in the nesting ground of Trump's pathologies.

Anyway, I wish us all much more wellness than we're currently experiencing, and if Trump is foolishly elected again, will for a long time. We do not know when it will end. End it will, but before how many have suffered, died, or worse.

Cheers! Sláinte!