The insidious nature of the demagogue. Is Trump a demagogue?

fmw · Mar 30, 2024

Patricio Da Silva said: ↑

I'll remember than the next time you guys on the right call democrats vermin or communists. And, using your extrapolation technique, calling me 'vermin' and 'communist'.

I find that entertaining.

At least my conclusions are true.
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LOL. I have never called you vermin or a communist. I have reserved those terms for politicians. Somebody called you that and you blame it on me. It is even more entertaining. You may want to slow down and think about what you write. It is making you look pretty bad.

RodB · Apr 1, 2024

Patricio Da Silva said: ↑

In my opinion, demagoguery must include insidiousness.

A demagogue uses his or her powers of persuasion to control you, lure you in a seemingly attractive way, but before long, you are trapped in a way that it is almost impossible to extricate yourself. That is the meaning of the word 'insidious'. Alluring, pulling you in, and before you know it, you are in a nightmarish trap. Most cult leaders are demagogues. Many are insidious. Note that I often see the word 'insidious' being used in place of 'hideous', this is actually wrong.

If one cannot manipulate masses of people for a political power by manipulating emotions, catering to bias and prejudices, one is not a demagogue. One can have demagogic traits, but that not what I'm talking about.

A demagogue is often characterized by their appeal to the emotions, fears, prejudices, and ignorance of the populace, rather than by rational argument or respect for the facts. These leaders are adept at manipulating public sentiment and turning it towards their own political ends, using a variety of techniques that are both overt and subtle. The insidious nature of a demagogue lies in their ability to disguise manipulative tactics as genuine concern for the common people, often while pursuing their own power and interests.

One of the hallmark traits of a demagogue is their propensity to exploit societal divisions, whether they be economic, racial, religious, or cultural. By highlighting these divisions and portraying themselves as the champions of one particular group, demagogues can consolidate their power base, often at the expense of societal harmony. They frequently employ us-versus-them rhetoric, casting their opponents as enemies of the people or the nation, thereby justifying extreme measures against those branded as such.

Demagogues are also known for their charismatic oratory skills, which they use to captivate and sway audiences. Their speeches often contain simple, powerful messages that resonate with widespread grievances, offering simplistic solutions to complex problems. This appeal to emotion rather than reason helps demagogues to build a strong, personal connection with the public, fostering a cult of personality around themselves.

The manipulation of media and information is another critical aspect of a demagogue's approach. By controlling or influencing the flow of information, they can shape public perception to suit their needs, spreading propaganda and disinformation to discredit opponents and critics. The selective presentation of facts, or outright fabrication, helps to maintain their narrative and keep the populace aligned with their agenda.

Furthermore, demagogues often exhibit a disdain for established institutions and norms of governance, portraying them as corrupt or ineffective. This anti-establishment stance resonates with those disillusioned with the status quo, drawing more supporters to their cause. However, once in power, demagogues may undermine these very institutions to eliminate checks on their authority, consolidating power in a manner that threatens democratic principles and the rule of law.

The insidiousness of a demagogue's rise to power lies not just in their exploitation of societal divisions or manipulation of public sentiment, but also in the gradual erosion of democratic norms and institutions. The erosion often occurs incrementally, making it difficult for society to recognize and respond to the threat until it is too late. By the time the true nature and intentions of the demagogue are apparent, they may have already secured a level of power that is difficult to challenge.

So, the traits of a demagogue, including their appeal to emotion, exploitation of divisions, charismatic oratory, manipulation of information, and disdain for democratic norms, all contribute to their insidious nature. These leaders pose a significant threat to democratic societies, as they undermine the principles of rational discourse, equality, and the rule of law, often leaving lasting damage in their wake. Recognizing and responding to the rise of demagogues is essential for the preservation of democratic values and institutions.

Trump is a classic demagogue. History is replete with them, and the outcomes of their leadership almost always end in disaster for a nation.
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Very thoughtful and informative post, all the way up to the next to last second when you briefly fell into your reflexive reaction, if there is anything bad, Trump does it.

Noone · Apr 1, 2024

RodB said: ↑

Very thoughtful and informative post, all the way up to the next to last second when you briefly fell into your reflexive reaction, if there is anything bad, Trump does it.
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IF he doesn't it's because he hasn't found out about it yet, or there's no money in it.

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The insidious nature of the demagogue. Is Trump a demagogue?

fmw Well-Known Member

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The insidious nature of the demagogue. Is Trump a demagogue?

fmw Well-Known Member

RodB Well-Known Member Donor

Noone Well-Known Member

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