The mental and emotional condition of Donald Trump and his MaGA has been discussed. Perhaps now we should go back to those who cannot see him for who and what he is? Also why he uses authoritarianism and how to avoid it: Timothy Snyder's rules to avoid falling into the banal force majeure of the so very petty authoritarian. Things he learned in writing his immensely valuable book, On Tyranny.
Take the Poll: If Trump is convicted for his actual crimes, difficult to prove in court, what should be his punishment?
Also, do watch FIRING LINE WITH MARGARET HOOVER, on Election Fraud, from Friday, 8/2/2024: On PBS, a show that maintains the character of the original series by conservative William F. Buckley Jr., providing a platform that is diligent in its commitment to a balanced exchange of opinion.
Now...
Explaining the filter some people use to overlook the negative aspects of Donald Trump's personality and actions involves several psychological and sociological concepts:
Cognitive Dissonance: This theory suggests that people experience discomfort when holding two conflicting beliefs or when their actions contradict their beliefs. To reduce this discomfort, they might downplay or ignore negative information about Trump to maintain consistency in their support for him.
Confirmation Bias: People tend to seek out and give more weight to information that confirms their pre-existing beliefs while ignoring or discounting information that contradicts those beliefs. Supporters of Trump might consume media and information sources that portray him positively and avoid those that highlight his negative traits.
Social Identity Theory: Individuals often derive a significant part of their identity from the groups to which they belong. For many Trump supporters, their political identity is closely tied to their support for him. Criticizing Trump might feel like a personal attack on their own identity, leading them to defend him more vigorously.
Ingroup vs. Outgroup Dynamics: Supporters may view Trump as a leader of their "ingroup" (e.g., their political party, cultural identity) and are more likely to overlook his flaws while being critical of the "outgroup" (e.g., his opponents). This dynamic can make them more forgiving of his actions and personality traits.
Charismatic Leadership: Trump’s charismatic and polarizing personality can create a strong emotional connection with his supporters. This emotional bond can make them more likely to overlook his flaws and defend him against criticism.
Media Influence and Echo Chambers: Many Trump supporters consume media that aligns with their viewpoints, which can create an echo chamber effect. In such environments, positive narratives about Trump are amplified while negative ones are minimized or discredited.
Perceived Benefits: Some supporters believe that Trump’s policies and actions have directly benefited them or align with their values and priorities. This can lead them to prioritize these perceived benefits over any personal flaws he may have.
Mistrust of Opponents: There is often a deep mistrust of the media, political opponents, and institutions that criticize Trump. Supporters may believe that negative information about him is exaggerated or fabricated by these sources.
Combining these factors can create a powerful filter that enables supporters to remain steadfast in their approval of Trump despite the negative aspects of his personality and actions.
Far outweighed by literally all other relevant issues.
What about when he does things that people around the world are disturbed by?
When Donald Trump does things that are disturbing to people around the world, his supporters may still filter out the negative aspects through several additional mechanisms:
Nationalism and Patriotism: Supporters might prioritize what they see as the interests of their country over global opinions. They may believe that Trump's actions are necessary for America’s strength and security, regardless of international disapproval.
Perceived Global Bias: There might be a belief among Trump supporters that international criticism is biased or influenced by foreign agendas that are not aligned with American interests. This skepticism towards global opinions allows them to dismiss international disapproval as irrelevant or misguided.
Us vs. Them Mentality: Trump’s rhetoric often frames his actions as protecting American sovereignty against foreign interference or criticism. Supporters might adopt this “us vs. them” mentality, viewing global criticism as an attack on their values and way of life.
Echo Chambers: Just as with domestic issues, supporters often consume media that portrays Trump’s international actions in a positive light, creating an echo chamber where global criticism is minimized or portrayed as unfair.
Focus on Results: Supporters may focus on the tangible results they believe Trump achieves, such as economic gains, job creation, or strengthened national defense, and consider these outcomes more important than how his actions are perceived internationally.
Mistrust of Global Institutions: There is often a deep mistrust of global institutions like the United Nations or the European Union among Trump supporters. They may view these institutions as corrupt or ineffective, and thus dismiss criticism from these bodies.
Rationalization: Supporters might rationalize controversial actions by framing them as tough decisions that are necessary for the greater good. They might argue that being a strong leader requires making unpopular choices.
Attribution of Motives: Supporters may attribute negative international reactions to ulterior motives, such as envy of America’s power or a desire to undermine Trump’s presidency. This attribution allows them to discount legitimate criticisms as biased or self-serving.
Cultural Differences: They may believe that cultural differences explain why other countries disapprove of Trump’s actions. What is acceptable or even praised in American politics might be viewed differently abroad, and supporters can use these differences to dismiss international criticism.
Defensive Reactions: Faced with global disapproval, supporters may become defensive and double down on their support, feeling that they need to defend their leader against what they perceive as unfair attacks.
By employing these mechanisms, Trump supporters can remain steadfast in their support despite widespread international disapproval of his actions.
Political and Electoral Strategies
Voter Mobilization and Engagement: Increasing voter turnout and engagement, particularly among demographics that are less likely to support the figure or movement in question, can be crucial. This includes efforts to register new voters, educate them on the issues, and encourage them to vote.
Candidate Development: Supporting and developing candidates who can effectively challenge the political figure or movement. This involves finding individuals who can unite various factions and appeal to a broad base of voters.
Coalition Building: Forming coalitions among different political groups, organizations, and communities that share common goals. This can amplify efforts and create a more united front.
Electoral Reforms: Advocating for reforms that enhance the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. This could include measures such as combating gerrymandering, protecting voting rights, and promoting campaign finance reform.
Media and Communication
Fact-Checking and Misinformation Combat: Strengthening efforts to fact-check and counter misinformation. This involves supporting independent journalism and promoting media literacy among the public to help individuals critically evaluate information sources.
Narrative Shaping: Crafting compelling narratives that highlight the negative impacts of the figure or movement's actions, and presenting positive alternatives. Effective storytelling can shift public opinion and galvanize support for change.
Civic Engagement and Activism
Grassroots Movements: Supporting grassroots movements that advocate for change at the local, state, and national levels. These movements can raise awareness, influence public opinion, and apply pressure on political leaders.
Public Demonstrations and Protests: Organizing peaceful demonstrations and protests to draw attention to issues and show widespread opposition. These actions can help sway public opinion and put pressure on policymakers.
Legal and Institutional Measures
Legal Challenges: Pursuing legal challenges to actions or policies that are deemed unconstitutional or harmful. This can involve working with civil rights organizations, advocacy groups, and legal experts to file lawsuits and seek judicial remedies.
Strengthening Institutions: Reinforcing the independence and integrity of democratic institutions, such as the judiciary, electoral bodies, and oversight agencies. Strong institutions can act as checks and balances against abuses of power.
Educational Efforts
Civic Education: Promoting civic education to increase public understanding of democratic principles, the importance of active participation, and the impact of government decisions on everyday life.
Dialogue and Deliberation: Facilitating dialogue and deliberation among diverse groups to foster mutual understanding and address polarization. This can help bridge divides and create a more informed and cohesive citizenry.
Long-Term Cultural Change
- Cultural Shifts: Working towards long-term cultural changes that prioritize democratic values, critical thinking, and inclusivity. This involves engaging with various sectors of society, including education, media, and community organizations, to promote these values.
By employing a combination of these strategies, it is possible to mitigate the hold of a particular political figure or movement on the government and work towards a more balanced and representative democratic system.
Tossing the tosser into prison for life wouldn't hurt either. Coming soon, hopefully.
All the best and best of luck!
Cheers! Sláinte!
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