For all of Donald Trump’s rhetorical innovations, personality quirks, and alleged criminal malfeasance, what has made him truly unique as a political figure is how much he has merged fan culture with American politics. It’s not unusual for Americans to idolize presidents—Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama are still actively revered by many—but no other president has inspired the same level of merchandise lines or themed car flags. A MAGA bumper sticker often isn’t simply a statement of loyalty; it’s a cultural signifier of community much like the dancing bear bumper sticker is for a Grateful Dead fan.
Nowhere is this more clear than at Trump’s rallies. He’s turned his campaign events into something that has more in common with a Bruce Springsteen concert than a Harry Truman whistle-stop tour.
I feel it’s important to point out that gullible and mentally ill should not be conflated. He’s an easy mark for Trump’s rhetoric, a sheep eager to be fleeced. That doesn’t mean he has a mental disorder.
I think imbecility counts.
I agree.
Stupidity is based on a lack of knowledge or awareness
When you are aware and enthusiastic about what you are doing and saying while pretending to be ignorant or misinformed … it’s malicious.
I disagree. Ignorance is based on a lack of knowledge or awareness. Stupidity is when you double down on what you think you know, and you’re not willing to be proven wrong.
Ignorance can be cured. Stupidity is too-often not.
Well, gullibility is a symptom of histrionic personality disorder, but only one of many