Cleon
of Athens
I would suggest that calling Donald Trump a "demagogue“ is niether hyperbolic nor an insult, (as the term was not in it's place of birth, ancient Athens). It is perhaps, just accurate.
“A demagogue /ˈdɛməɡɒɡ/ (from
Greek δημαγωγός, a popular leader, a leader of the mob, from δῆμος, …a
political leader in a democracy who gains popularity by appealing to
the passions, prejudices, and ignorance of the common
people. Demagogues usually oppose deliberation and advocate
immediate, violent action to address a national crisis; they accuse moderate
and thoughtful opponents of weakness. “
The methods
of demagogues
Scapegoating
Fearmongering
Lying
Emotional oratory and personal magnetism
Violence and physical intimidation
Personal insults and ridicule
Gross oversimplification
Accusing opponents of weakness and disloyalty
One
of the historically apparent characteristics of a demagogue is to be a “teflon candidate”.
It is rationally arguable the Donald Trump is close to being classic demagogue and may be an absolutely American version of
one, (Americans somehow separate the “elite” from the “wealthy…as foreign folks
have pointed out, we tend to confuse “rich” with
clever or smart).
Teflon is a nickname given to persons, particularly in politics, to whom criticism does not seem to stick. The term comes from Teflon, the brand name by DuPont of a "non-stick" chemical used on cookware.”
To back him for president, assuming it is not just a matter of party loyalty, one must suspend one's analytic functions on what he says, or at least not notice the apparent irrationality in what he says. For the supporter, maybe they have shrouded their own brain with teflon.
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