this strategy doesn't always work with your dates... haha
surely Mr. Trump is signaling that his approach works with a certain segment of republican voters. If you are interested in a woman from that group, then the strategy might work, otherwise, perhaps you have proven that you are making too much of a generalization. :-)
surely Mr. Trump is signaling that his approach works with a certain segment of republican voters. If you are interested in a woman from that group, then the strategy might work, otherwise, perhaps you have proven that you are making too much of a generalization. :-)
1
This sounds naive. Some people thought Ronald Reagan was "authentic" but he was just an actor--an entertainer. Donald Trump is also an entertainer, but is far from a Reagan "optimist." Today's Republicans were raised on a diet of fear and bombast, and Trump actively encourages fear, and offers no end of bombast. Considered in those terms, Trump and Cruz may be the only ones who can win enough primaries to become the nominee. Marco Rubio could be a logical standard bearer now that Jeb! has been pronounced brain dead, but his first and last name end in vowel sounds and his brother-in-law was a Colombian drug lord--so much of Middle America will be a Rubio no fly zone. Hillary may end up owing Trump and Cruz some serious Thank You notes if things continue in this vein.
1
Agreed. As optimistic as this theory might be, I can't help but disagree. Rather a nasty streak has surfaced in the political right that even "Normal" Republicans such as myself, find repulsive.
I am not concerned about Trump's antics. I am very concerned about the many followers who cheer even at the suggestion that families of suspected terrorists should also be hunted down and killed. Or that we should carpet bomb even if millions of innocent people also get killed. Sickening !
I am not concerned about Trump's antics. I am very concerned about the many followers who cheer even at the suggestion that families of suspected terrorists should also be hunted down and killed. Or that we should carpet bomb even if millions of innocent people also get killed. Sickening !
3
It it not the signification of 'Trump Noise' that has this American stumped. It is more to the tune of how this surreal phenomenon sounds to my ear, and widely open to interpretation, as the story of a Country read by its People. On the brink and making me feel small, less than average, not at my best, with a wish to make a hasty retreat.
I feel like a Nazi for one, or what my interpretation of a Fascist would be. In a state of recoil and revulsion at this State of Affairs. Uneasy and concerned for my friends from the Middle East who have lived here before I was born in New York, wanting to hold on tight to my African friends who are Muslims.
I believe in the President, I believe that with few exceptions, People are intrinsically good and that we all want to sit down for Thanksgiving at the table of our Nation, but something has gone terribly wrong with all this battering noise, diminishing us as a Country, as Americans and as People within our own right. The horns of war are calling and the ground on which we stand has been rendered unstable, making it hard to stand steady and strong.
I feel like a Nazi for one, or what my interpretation of a Fascist would be. In a state of recoil and revulsion at this State of Affairs. Uneasy and concerned for my friends from the Middle East who have lived here before I was born in New York, wanting to hold on tight to my African friends who are Muslims.
I believe in the President, I believe that with few exceptions, People are intrinsically good and that we all want to sit down for Thanksgiving at the table of our Nation, but something has gone terribly wrong with all this battering noise, diminishing us as a Country, as Americans and as People within our own right. The horns of war are calling and the ground on which we stand has been rendered unstable, making it hard to stand steady and strong.
2
If this explanation was primary, then shouldn't Bernie Sanders benefit from the same effect?
This is the first intelligent analysis I have read regarding the "Trump Phenomenon". The article gives Trump more credit than he deserves for having a coherent strategy but it certainly contains elements of the truth.
1
"Mr. Reagan will raise taxes; and so will I. He won't tell you. I just did."
3
Given his abysmal record at truth-telling, (http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/13/opinion/campaign-stops/all-politicians...
Mr. Trump's "authenticity" is nothing more than an ability to lie convincingly.
The other possibility, of course, is that he's too ignorant to know he's lying.
Mr. Trump's "authenticity" is nothing more than an ability to lie convincingly.
The other possibility, of course, is that he's too ignorant to know he's lying.
2
Trump reminds me of Brian Bosworth, known as the "Boz", the much ballyhooed, flamboyant, braggadocios linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks. He was thought to be the next Dick Butkus (one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history) until he met the genuine, authentic article of a running back named Bo Jackson and got run over. He retired from the NFL shortly thereafter. Like the Boz, Trump is not really authentic. His sincerity is not driven by the power of principle, but by people sidelined by new rules who want someone to hit back real hard.
3
Voters need to be rational. Vote for the person who you figure will support the issues you value. To hell with personalities, demeanor etc.
1
I have another take. Certainly, Americans are weary of career politicians and politically correct approaches that get nothing done. But there seems to be something else in play here.
Consider: a lot of Americans look at the complexities of getting anything done politically (such as immigration) or the MASSIVE complexities of solving international conundrums (such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or getting everyone to place nice on climate change), and simply shut down. They resonate to a leader who tells them that it's not rocket science, that it's all solvable and that he has a track record of proving it.
How else explain the popularity of Trump on "The Apprentice" -- the reality TV show with which he was closely associated? Choosing the best person for something can be regarded as a very complex exercise, most not having the slightest idea of how to even approach the problem. But you set the objective of choosing the best leader from among 16-18 contestants and each week eliminate one by confronting them all with simple tests whose performance is easily gauged. At the end of the season you've secured your objective, entertained and made a lot of money. It's a winner's story.
The same approach may not solve the Israeli-Palestinian mess, but its simplicity appeals to a decidedly outclassed audience.
Trump succeeds because he spends so much time among that outclassed audience and so little time among the top minds, who recognize legitimate complexity when they see it,
Consider: a lot of Americans look at the complexities of getting anything done politically (such as immigration) or the MASSIVE complexities of solving international conundrums (such as the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or getting everyone to place nice on climate change), and simply shut down. They resonate to a leader who tells them that it's not rocket science, that it's all solvable and that he has a track record of proving it.
How else explain the popularity of Trump on "The Apprentice" -- the reality TV show with which he was closely associated? Choosing the best person for something can be regarded as a very complex exercise, most not having the slightest idea of how to even approach the problem. But you set the objective of choosing the best leader from among 16-18 contestants and each week eliminate one by confronting them all with simple tests whose performance is easily gauged. At the end of the season you've secured your objective, entertained and made a lot of money. It's a winner's story.
The same approach may not solve the Israeli-Palestinian mess, but its simplicity appeals to a decidedly outclassed audience.
Trump succeeds because he spends so much time among that outclassed audience and so little time among the top minds, who recognize legitimate complexity when they see it,
3
Trump gets +1 from me for being harder to buy, theoretically, than most of our leaders. (Though he still won't resurrect much-needed Glass-Steagall.)
But he gets -10 for difficulties sharing the spotlight with anyone but his kids.
But he gets -10 for difficulties sharing the spotlight with anyone but his kids.
Trump is harder to buy because he's already bought himself. His habit of watching mainly over his own bottom line is so ingrained in his psyche that I suspect his every decision should he reach the White House will be based in large part on how he can profit from it.
The oligarchs don't need to buy Trump. By helping himself, he'll be helping them, and I've never seen an instance where he wasn't focused on helping himself. Remember, this is the guy who tried to get Atlantic City to evict a widow from her home so he could build a new parking lot for his casino - but somehow, he's convinced people that he's all for the little guy.
The oligarchs don't need to buy Trump. By helping himself, he'll be helping them, and I've never seen an instance where he wasn't focused on helping himself. Remember, this is the guy who tried to get Atlantic City to evict a widow from her home so he could build a new parking lot for his casino - but somehow, he's convinced people that he's all for the little guy.
2
Long ago, when Trump became the chief founder of birtherism, and subsequently failed to admit his "error," in the face of overwhelming evidence even he couldn't deny, he abdicated any claim to authenticity. No thinking person could sincerely continue to believe Trump's claim, even if some low-information citizens in certain affinity groups might have bitten on the claim originally. Trump's supporters are concerned with neither authenticity nor truth, but with affirmation of their emotions.
7
I am a uncommitted voter that will not make my decision until at least February, so when I say that there is no question that Trump is authentic, I mean it. Perhaps I am wrong, but authentic is but one of many criteria that I use for selection. Others may use a different set of criteria. If authentic were the only criterion get ready to say President Trump.
If you think Donald Trump is "authentic" then I'd suggest you look at his past statements, on abortion, his former party affiliations as a Democrat and registered independent, and other things.
Donald Trump is at heart a businessman. He will say or do whatever sells. He's done a wonderful job at tapping into the visceral emotions of the Republican base but he's weak on policy, not that it really counts with his supporters.
Donald Trump is at heart a businessman. He will say or do whatever sells. He's done a wonderful job at tapping into the visceral emotions of the Republican base but he's weak on policy, not that it really counts with his supporters.
10
Ronald Reagen and Winston Churchill also changed parties.
The bottom line is that it's essential to take seriously what may appear to be demagogic bluster, and not write it off or excuse it as little more than vote-getting rhetoric. The majority of Germans, British and Americans in the late 1920s and early 30s, including many intellectuals and business people, discounted Hitler's inflammatory rants as harmless diatribes and convinced themselves that his warmongering and racism would soften or disappear in the unlikely event he might achieve real power in the government. Thus they denied reality, and thus they helped bring upon the world the near-destruction of all that is decent and progressive in Western culture.
4
You could write the same basic article about the appeal of Bernie Sanders - but the NYTimes never seems to do that.
1
Bernie Sanders doesn't help himself with lagging poll numbers versus Hillary Clinton. Granted he's ahead in New Hampshire where he has the geographic advantage of being a Vermont senator, but he lags everywhere else, and in the polling in many states it's in excess of 15 to 20 points or more behind Hillary Clinton. The reality is until he starts changing those polling numbers there is really not much need to pay attention to Bernie Sanders.
3
I agree with the writer that "authenticity" is the key to Trump's appeal, and that whether a candidate comes across as truly authentic is crucial to his or her campaign. Mitt Romney, because of his swing from the far right to the center, and because of his virtual disavowal of healthcare reform in Massachusetts, lost in good part because he seemed inauthentic. But what voters should understand about Trump is that he's first and foremost a huckster and that his presumed "authenticity" as a no-holds-barred kind of guy is one more product in his portfolio of Trump brands. He's selling authenticity, but the operative word is "selling." Buyers, beware.
3
Mr. Trump appears to be a victim of the hoards of Yes men he has surrounded himself with for decades who have convinced him that he has the intelligence to offset his limitations.
How many other candidates for our nation's highest office have ever been the principal in four separate bankruptcies? This is not a good omen for a nation already eighteen billion in debt.
As the US President is limited in what s/he can do individually, the incumbent absolutely has to collaborate with others to have any significant impact. Mr. Trump's bombastic impulsive comments do not lend themselves towards establishing effective and sustainable collaborations.
I predict that should Mr. Trump's current lead in the GOP polls somehow be sustained so that he is the party's nominee, we will see such a broadbased surge to keep him out of office that his opponent will break polling records for turnout of voters.
How many other candidates for our nation's highest office have ever been the principal in four separate bankruptcies? This is not a good omen for a nation already eighteen billion in debt.
As the US President is limited in what s/he can do individually, the incumbent absolutely has to collaborate with others to have any significant impact. Mr. Trump's bombastic impulsive comments do not lend themselves towards establishing effective and sustainable collaborations.
I predict that should Mr. Trump's current lead in the GOP polls somehow be sustained so that he is the party's nominee, we will see such a broadbased surge to keep him out of office that his opponent will break polling records for turnout of voters.
2
"Mr. Trump's bombastic impulsive comments do not lend themselves towards establishing effective and sustainable collaborations."
In a similar fashion, Ted Cruz's "Rule or Ruin" philosophy and his reputation as the person most-disliked by both houses of Congress bode ill for an ability to get anything done in the unlikely event that he should become President.
A number of candidates campaign as if they're running for dictator, and a number of voters cast their ballots as if that's a desirable outcome.
In a similar fashion, Ted Cruz's "Rule or Ruin" philosophy and his reputation as the person most-disliked by both houses of Congress bode ill for an ability to get anything done in the unlikely event that he should become President.
A number of candidates campaign as if they're running for dictator, and a number of voters cast their ballots as if that's a desirable outcome.
3
To recognize authenticity, one has to be intelligent and enlightened enough to recognize the complexities of issues. The low-information, very conservative voter Trump appears authentic to is invariably simplistically black and white regarding issues.
Trump and Cruz are two of a kind, both narcissistic and confident that their "truth telling" will create the appearance of authenticity, or, as many of the gullible low-information voters note, they say what they think. The problem is, what they think will not do anything but continue the governance dysfunction that very conservative voters created by electing those who despise government.
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
Trump and Cruz are two of a kind, both narcissistic and confident that their "truth telling" will create the appearance of authenticity, or, as many of the gullible low-information voters note, they say what they think. The problem is, what they think will not do anything but continue the governance dysfunction that very conservative voters created by electing those who despise government.
Eclectic Pragmatist — http://eclectic-pragmatist.tumblr.com/
Eclectic Pragmatist — https://medium.com/eclectic-pragmatism
3
I disagree. It's not authenticity per se as you are using the word; i.e. as "truth-telling". Rather it is authenticity as in "real", as in just like me and my other uneducated or, worse, poorly educated friends in the bar (or club, or neighborhood). Trump seems authentic because he sounds exactly like ''Joe" across the street and is the embodiment of the strong vein of anti-intellectualism that runs throughout America and American history. It is similar to the idea that Bush would be a great guy to have a beer with. That is the US measure of authenticity. Someone is authentic if that person doesn't make you fell stupid.
9
Kind of dumb, your dating strategy. The honesty of it is not the signal that likely comes across so much as your finding it necessary to point out a trivial imperfection. Who wants to have a boyfriend that does that all the time. Authentic signaling that would be more interesting would be an accurate deconstruction of the sexual sinaling involved in the particular design of that black dress. That's risky, and therefore likely to pay off if you can do it well because it means you're able to understand something your date has herself considered and intends to signal.
3
I guess if I want a really authentic candidate, I'll look for the one who admits that, mainly, just like the Supreme Court and congress, he's going to do what his wealthy donors and friends want done.
4
This article articulates roughly what I like about Donald Trump. I am not quite sure 'authenticity' is it. But I do look at him and definitely give him a pass on all the outrageous stuff like 'illegal immigrants are rapists' and the like.
I continue to believe three things:
First, I will probably vote Democrat in the privacy of the booth.
Second, I like Donald Trump so much better than Cruz, Carson and Rubio that there is just no contest.
Third, my second point above is true because I actually believe Donald Trump is the only Republican who would do things to help the working class in this country. I regard building up the working class as THE key challenge for the United States.
I will also say this: if one tries to champion the working class, this or that mannerism will occur that will have the elites howling 'FASCIST'.
That section of the country, the non college educated working people, are hurting bad and have been for a long time now and they need help. I see this group as a lynchpin for general prosperity. The current remedies, 'send them all to college' are a sick joke. My first job involved threading shoelaces into sneakers. Where are THOSE kinds of jobs now. You want to go to school and learn to be a radiologist? Fine. A) are you smart enough? B) how long will it be for THAT to be completely outsourced?
Democratic elites no longer actually 'feel this pain'. My hunch is that Trump would support trade policies that help the working class.
I continue to believe three things:
First, I will probably vote Democrat in the privacy of the booth.
Second, I like Donald Trump so much better than Cruz, Carson and Rubio that there is just no contest.
Third, my second point above is true because I actually believe Donald Trump is the only Republican who would do things to help the working class in this country. I regard building up the working class as THE key challenge for the United States.
I will also say this: if one tries to champion the working class, this or that mannerism will occur that will have the elites howling 'FASCIST'.
That section of the country, the non college educated working people, are hurting bad and have been for a long time now and they need help. I see this group as a lynchpin for general prosperity. The current remedies, 'send them all to college' are a sick joke. My first job involved threading shoelaces into sneakers. Where are THOSE kinds of jobs now. You want to go to school and learn to be a radiologist? Fine. A) are you smart enough? B) how long will it be for THAT to be completely outsourced?
Democratic elites no longer actually 'feel this pain'. My hunch is that Trump would support trade policies that help the working class.
3
But Trump doesn't spend a lot of time detailing how he would help the poor and working poor or why that is important, does he. No empathy is not his thing. He focuses his energies on repugnant stereotypes and hate speech, which a cowering public seem to eat up.
5
"I actually believe Donald Trump is the only Republican who would do things to help the working class in this country."
What do you see or hear that suggests what you've chosen to believe? I see someone who'd be far more likely to help himself; not the middle class. He's shown a willingness, through his bankruptcies if nothing else, to do precisely this: harm others for his benefit.
...Andrew
What do you see or hear that suggests what you've chosen to believe? I see someone who'd be far more likely to help himself; not the middle class. He's shown a willingness, through his bankruptcies if nothing else, to do precisely this: harm others for his benefit.
...Andrew
3
Trump's against raising the minimum wage, so I'm not sure why you think he is for the working class.
2
@W: Very true. The Republican Party and its enablers (Fox, talk radio, etc.) have spent 40 years whipping their base into a frothing frenzy every election in order to get their votes, and then, as soon as they were elected, threw those voters under the bus, working instead for the benefit of the 1%. Unfortunately, the Democratic politicians have been just as eager to do the bidding of their wealthy friends and benefactors, and with a few exceptions have been willing to let middle America shift for itself. Obama has been content to have U1 unemployment stats go down, unconcerned that Phd.s and MAs are now flipping burgers, and that millions have given up altogether.
Middle America - red and blue - has been had in a big way and it's actually healthy that they're waking up to it and large numbers are rejecting the establishment politicians on the right and the left.
The big question is, where do we go from here? We are talking about a lot of people. After what's happened to them, they don't deserve to be laughed at or dismissed, and as you say, they are not going to politely go away.
While the coastal elite will heave a sigh of relief if an establishment politician is ultimately elected, 4 more years of a Hillary or a Mark Rubio continuing to work for the 1% and ignoring the disenfranchised middle class would set the stage for developments that would make today's craziness look like Sesame Street. Just ask Marie Antionette.
Middle America - red and blue - has been had in a big way and it's actually healthy that they're waking up to it and large numbers are rejecting the establishment politicians on the right and the left.
The big question is, where do we go from here? We are talking about a lot of people. After what's happened to them, they don't deserve to be laughed at or dismissed, and as you say, they are not going to politely go away.
While the coastal elite will heave a sigh of relief if an establishment politician is ultimately elected, 4 more years of a Hillary or a Mark Rubio continuing to work for the 1% and ignoring the disenfranchised middle class would set the stage for developments that would make today's craziness look like Sesame Street. Just ask Marie Antionette.
2
You haven't been listening to the policies Dems have pushed to help the middle. Obama and the Dems have pushed affordable healthcare for workers who don't have employer-provided healthcare. They pushed for infrastructure spending and other types of worthwhile public sector investments that will help the under-employed middle. And, the Dems have done far more to anger big moneyed interests (e.g., Dodd Frank consumer regulations and consumer protection.) The real problem here is that Dems lack effective messaging and public relations so people such as you can't see this basic difference between the parties.
How about writing about Bernie Sanders and his real issues, instead of Donald Trump and his rants?
The Times is full of daily PR for Trump and his rants, but about Bernie and his issues tells us nothing.
You could provide a thimble of balance.
The Times is full of daily PR for Trump and his rants, but about Bernie and his issues tells us nothing.
You could provide a thimble of balance.
16
Trump creates clicks, headlines, outrage and media buzz, Bernie not so much. At the end of the day modern media is about selling stories with the widest audience appeal.
Yes, it's style over substance, but that's life in 21st century America. If Bernie Sanders wants more articles written about him the it's on him to create the type of media buzz the attracts writers as well as reader.
Yes, it's style over substance, but that's life in 21st century America. If Bernie Sanders wants more articles written about him the it's on him to create the type of media buzz the attracts writers as well as reader.
1
The protection of human lives Trumps political correctness.
1
There's another authentic politician running for President. Bernie Sanders is the opposite of Trump in every way except that both violate the norms of politics. Trump does it by being a nasty demagogue and Bernie does it by talking about facts and policies, like gross inequality and saving the middle and lower classes by (gasp!) taxing the very rich what they can (easily) afford to pay.
10
What really does keep Sanders out of the news? Ageism? He doesn't shout enough? Hillary partisanship in the party and media? His belief that the government can be a force for good? We finally have a candidate range worthy of real thought and choice (bookends are Trump/Cruz and Sanders) and the Sanders end goes mostly unreported. Why?
5
Trump is invoking the "reptile theory", which essentially states, the primitive portion of our brains is susceptible to perceived threats to our personal safety. Our primitive brain colors our view and partners us with the speaker who identifies a perceived threat and delivers a solution to keep us safe, which even if illogical, comforts the listener. This is a well published trial tactic used to arouse jurors and sway them from making logical conclusions.
4
First, I'm an Independent, not a Rep or Dem. I worked for the Feds at the time and felt Bush #1's political appointees seemed reasonable, but that Clinton's appointees were very ideologic (show me the facts that support my decision, not the other way around). I voted for Bush #2 the first time because Gore seemed like Clinton Ver. 2.0. I didn't like Bush #2 but I said "Hey, Congress can control him.". What a mistake that was. Bush #2 was the same as Clinton (show me the facts that support my decision, not the other way around) except in the opposite direction. Having learned my lesson, my advice is: Control who gets there in the first place with your vote.
4
Did I miss something? I don't recall Clinton getting us into a war.
4
Hmmm, authentic what?
Authentic facist.
Authentic facist.
10
Sure, 'authenticity' is a live cultural buzzword right now. But I think what we're seeing is that Trump is an authentic jerk. And so are millions of Americans.
18
How do you know that Trump wasn't trying to make a serious attempt to articulate policy? Whistling in the dark?
3
There are other ways Trump could be authentic. He could come out for gun control. He could have been real when he called for taxing hedge fund managers. Instead, he proposed a tax plan that kept them whole. He's just pandering to the racist underclass that watch Fox.
17
He could admit that he supports abortion rights. But what would it do to his poll numbers? and why don't the media people bring it up?
2
Using economic theory to link Trump to authenticity is intellectual overkill. The more plausible explanation for Trump's controversial statements is that he really is a self-aggrandizing, attention-craving, nativist bigot, and those statements get him the (free) publicity, approval, and poll numbers he craves. That he can do so only by relentlessly stoking the fears and prejudices of the already fearful economic underclass on which he now preys just makes those statements more offensive.
14
"But if authenticity is more important to voters than specific policies..."
If "authenticity" was all that mattered, there would still be other ways to show authenticity. Trump's voters agree with his bigotry. They flock to him because he says PARTICULAR things that no one else running would say. That's his appeal to them. Whatever appeal Trump has based on "authenticity" is due to his obvious authenticity as a bully (often called a "strong leader.") A lot of people really like that.
"Perhaps this explains some fringe of the electorate, but I think that it sells the American people short."
Yes and no. On the one hand, we're not talking about the American people. We're talking about nativists within the Republican primary, and it doesn't sell them short to call them nativists.
On the other hand, Trump's proposals are a logical extension of the anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant scapegoating promoted by the other Republican candidates. The difference is that he makes a general principle out of fears that lesser demagogues employ selectively.
Enough Americans have enough tolerance for these sentiments that one of our two major parties is dominated by them. At a certain point, bigotry is bigotry, not just calculated authenticity. Even if that's very American.
If "authenticity" was all that mattered, there would still be other ways to show authenticity. Trump's voters agree with his bigotry. They flock to him because he says PARTICULAR things that no one else running would say. That's his appeal to them. Whatever appeal Trump has based on "authenticity" is due to his obvious authenticity as a bully (often called a "strong leader.") A lot of people really like that.
"Perhaps this explains some fringe of the electorate, but I think that it sells the American people short."
Yes and no. On the one hand, we're not talking about the American people. We're talking about nativists within the Republican primary, and it doesn't sell them short to call them nativists.
On the other hand, Trump's proposals are a logical extension of the anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant scapegoating promoted by the other Republican candidates. The difference is that he makes a general principle out of fears that lesser demagogues employ selectively.
Enough Americans have enough tolerance for these sentiments that one of our two major parties is dominated by them. At a certain point, bigotry is bigotry, not just calculated authenticity. Even if that's very American.
32
If the way to be authentic is to be your outrageous self, the way to fake authenticity is to be outrageous.
5
Trump wins.
2
Maybe Trumps wins a few primaries and caucuses. Maybe he wins the nomination but with his rhetoric and negatives he will never build a strong enough coalition to win the presidency.
You're using lipstick and a black dress as the explanation that all is OK with Trump's unending list of offensive statements, many of which currently are harming America's reputation around the world and potentially the safety of some citizens? I usually have great respect for your opinion, but that example is weak.
3
Sophistry 101.
5
I've long believed that right wing populists and left wing populists have more in common than differences, and God help us if a demagogue came along who was able to merge the two. Trump may be that demagogue.
2
I wonder what Mr. Wolfers "analysis" would be of Adolph Hitler. Now there was an authentic man who had the pulse of the people. Mr. Hitler certainly new the art of "signalling" that he was not a poll driven politician. Mr. Trump is simply parroting what is being said in bars across America. I guess Mr. Wolfers would call it crowd sourcing which was for formally known as mob rule. Mr. Trump is just another Sarah Palin with more money and a better hair dresser. Good Baseball managers know that if they listen to the fans for advice they will soon be one of them.
Mr. Wolfers says Establishment politicians have lost the trust of the American people because they appear ungenuine for using polls to find out what concerns the voter. However he calls Me. Trump genuine for voicing the voter's deepest fears. Wake up, this is dangerous demagoguery.
Richard, Baltimore
Mr. Wolfers says Establishment politicians have lost the trust of the American people because they appear ungenuine for using polls to find out what concerns the voter. However he calls Me. Trump genuine for voicing the voter's deepest fears. Wake up, this is dangerous demagoguery.
Richard, Baltimore
8
@Richard's readers: Good points, but to clarify: "new" = knew; "for formally" = formerly. And I disagree about Sarah Palin's hairdresser. She looked and looks a lot better than Mr. Trump.
I don't think Mencken's claim sells the American people short, and I've got evidence.
Weapons of Mass Destruction, anyone?
Weapons of Mass Destruction, anyone?
2
"Pathologically honest" is a brilliant coinage, and shouldn't have been buried in the text. It could be the "truthiness" of this decade. And I agree generally that Trump is crazy like the dead fox that sleeps on his head.
On the dating front, however, you're woefully behind the curve. The reason your tactic of starting with a small insult before proceeding to the usual compliments isn't working is that it's a well-known technique of so-called pick-up artists. They call it "negging", and to many women its use instantly labels a man as a facile follower of the PUA line.
Then again, maybe you're playing a 3rd-level game: intentionally screening out the smart ones early.
On the dating front, however, you're woefully behind the curve. The reason your tactic of starting with a small insult before proceeding to the usual compliments isn't working is that it's a well-known technique of so-called pick-up artists. They call it "negging", and to many women its use instantly labels a man as a facile follower of the PUA line.
Then again, maybe you're playing a 3rd-level game: intentionally screening out the smart ones early.
4
Sorry, the voters like this specific policy. When polled, 53% of the electorate agrees that Islam is incompatible with American values. They also believe that the current administration is wearing ideological blinders when it comes to terrorists.
A candidate who manages to craft an intelligent version of Trump's proposal will be highly successful. Targeting for close and special examination specific age groups of men from specific countries where terrorism is rampant would be a winner.
A candidate who manages to craft an intelligent version of Trump's proposal will be highly successful. Targeting for close and special examination specific age groups of men from specific countries where terrorism is rampant would be a winner.
2
Authentic--existential--generational--the language is taking a beating! The weird part to me (one one of the weird parts) is that the Hat Cat has gone from being sort of aspirational in his so-called "authenticity" (make America great, even though it still is) and now is just over-simplified and stupid, alienating Muslims who do not cleave to the old scriptures as well as our allies in the Middle East. But who does all this benefit? Donald Trump! Try to get his pouchy angry-baby face off the screen. Try! You can't. I don't care if Obama is worse (he is), or how great it is to irritate the media (he does)--look at the lack of smarts, rigor, advisers, etc...that part is disturbing to say the least.
We should wake us up to the fact that our approach to incoming Muslims may need to change. The thought that a vetting process will help identify radical terrorists eludes the logical mind. Does anyone honestly think that a radical Muslim seeking entrance into the USA will tell you he's a terrorist? The risk is far too high. Perhaps Trump is right.
1
Taking his idea to the extreme--what makes him think someone with bad intentions or really just anyone, if questioned, would say sure, I am a Muslim...oh, I can't visit the US, well darn.
There is a huge roadblock to your suggestion. It is called the US Constitution.
Yes, I buy your theory. I am from a small town in upstate NY where many support Trump. They like the fact he is not a career politician and they believe he can get things done in a society where we are used to government being deadlocked on the scrimmage line between two political parties who are more concerned about power than the future of America. Yet, there also seems to be an underlying thought-- on top of their appreciation that Trump is his own guy (Ie, rich enough to thwart lobby groups)-- that as President he will be moderated by advisors. There is a belief there that any President is run by his advisors. Seems to be a dangerous assumption when you are electing a billionaire used to getting his way. Not everybody supports Trump... Bernie is a big hit, too. Many point out the Trump style of racism but many are so scared, angry, and frustrated over terrorism that they will vote for Trump. The country is not populated by NYT readers-- and I am very afraid if Trump ends on the presidential ballot and if there is no viable opponent...
8
First, I'm weary of hearing kindness and decency and rational discourse being dismissed as "political correctness." Having the good sense not to lump all Muslims in among these pathologically angry terrorists is NOT an act of political correctness. It is simply being rational, and it's also an act of respect for the nearly 100% of Muslims who neither commit acts of terror, nor sympathize with those who do. Second, while it may be "authentic" to spout off your bigotry, it is nothing less than an evil act to do so. That's because giving voice to these feelings gives permission for others to let their own bigotry out of their own closets, and to act upon those impulses. For God's sake, this man advocates the codification of his bigotry into PUBLIC POLICY. As responsible adults, it is our duty to examine the irrational fears in our own hears, own up to them, and refuse to give in to them in any way. The kind of "authenticity" embodied by Trump is in truth just the behavior of a deeply narcissistic and obtuse man, willfully and blissfully unaware of his own neurosis, and willing to do and say anything to get the attention he craves.
50
Thank you - particularly the last clause "willing to do and say anthing to get the attention he craves." Not to psychoanalyze Trump, but he sure does have a lot of signs of pathological narcissism. Not the makings of a great leader.
4
First of all I think Trumps support is artificial. Every time this guy berps the media covers it. Those cheering crowds they show on tv are a tiny sample of the vast majority of the American people. On the day he made his last stupid statement Hillary, Bernie and Martin O Malley all put out substantial policy statements. But the main stream media fell over each other covering the "outrage" following his remark. And we never heard what any of them had to say.
5
You want authentic? Check out Bernie Sanders.
27
Is Trump a caricature of a despot, or is he articulating the fear and frustration of many of us, and providing entertainment at the same time? Maybe both. It's hard to know how people will vote. One would hope the rational mind will win out over baser instincts.
1
Trump is divisive, confrontational and arrogant and not good material for President. I'd never vote for him. I do have respect for willingness to expose exactly who/what he is, unlike most politicians who will tell voters exactly what they want to hear to secure an election. America needs to place the value of human life higher than that of political correctness.
I am a conservative and may not vote this time--I will not vote for Trump or Hillary. First time ever--not voting. I hope it does not come to that.
Like most economic theory, this one is not worth the space it takes to write it. First, there is not way to verify the supposed theory; Ventura example is not evidence of anything; who used the "theory" and lost? Cannot falsify, no value. Just gross speculation of someone who is not well versed in political campaigns, voting or elections. The populace must take every ECONOMIC "theory" with more than a grain of salt because they depend on abstractions that do not have a behavioral base. Second, remember that macro economic theories were so faulty that most have been abandoned by rational people who want to see data, not speculation.
1
Most of what Trump rants is incorrect. It is factually wrong. He started out with sending detectives to Hawaii.."you can't believe what we found"..in order to expose our elected President of being a fraud. If you are on a quest for authentic, Mr Trump is the opposite. He scams. He plays people.
11
Trump voters are largely white, male, and with only a high school education, which makes them the kind of easy marks that P.T. Barnum would have loved.
"no one “has ever lost money by underestimating the intelligence of the great masses of the plain people; nor has anyone ever lost public office thereby."
"no one “has ever lost money by underestimating the intelligence of the great masses of the plain people; nor has anyone ever lost public office thereby."
6
Does having a doctorate better prepare a voter when so few desirable choices are available? The "pollsters" need to come clean and reveal exactly whom they are surveying---and how. They also need to make it clear with every reporting of "percentages" that there is an error band. If not Trump--who is not asking for your money to finance his campaign---then who? I like middle-of-the-road Kasich from Ohio but don't like the southern gentlemen much. In general, many of us with doctorates like Trump's transparency.....which is why this 'egg-head' will not vote for another Clinton.
2
I know people with Ivy eds who at least for dramatic effect, say they like this guy. He speaks his mind! We need a change! Obama failed! Well, so does the nutty drunk by the subway. He will speak his mind all day long. Honestly, I have wondered if Trump does not suffer from "flight of ideas," a symptom of bi-polar. He seems to have a pretty manic affect. But I am not a doctor...so...
To be PC, are you suggesting that Mr. T is wanting to have sex with the American Public?
How would you relate your theory to what happened in Germany/ Italy in the 1930's?
1
The dictionary definition of "peacock" is a dead-on accurate description of Trump. In his vanity, I suspect he is reveling in the worldwide condemnation of his inane utterances.
If America has to wake up, it will need someone worthwhile to wake up to. If not Trump, who might it be?
If America has to wake up, it will need someone worthwhile to wake up to. If not Trump, who might it be?
2
Bernie Sanders is authentic and consistent. For three decades in office he has stood for rationality and the welfare of average Americans.
29
Equally disturbing is that if Trump were the nominee, half the country would find a reason to agree with him--as Mitch McConnell has already indicated.
3
I have an old political science textbook from 1972 that explains Mr. Trump. The authors assert that whenever the United States experiences an economic recession or losses a military action, the country's politics will swing to the populist right.
The lower and working classes have never supported constitutional rights, such as free speech, religious freedom, due process or equality for all, anyway. Anti-elite candidates, such as Mr. Trump exploit these powerful political forces. Anti-elite political movements are often anti-democratic, racist and extreme. Anti-elite movements are hostile to the existing ruling class, which tends to support constitutional protections.
We have seen this before in our history and it can be dangerous. Think McCarthy era, as just one example.
The lower and working classes have never supported constitutional rights, such as free speech, religious freedom, due process or equality for all, anyway. Anti-elite candidates, such as Mr. Trump exploit these powerful political forces. Anti-elite political movements are often anti-democratic, racist and extreme. Anti-elite movements are hostile to the existing ruling class, which tends to support constitutional protections.
We have seen this before in our history and it can be dangerous. Think McCarthy era, as just one example.
12
Except that the McCarthy era did not accompany an economic recession or a military loss. Far from it, the McCarthy era coincided with the great burst of post-war American middle-class prosperity in the late 1940's and early 1950's. And it didn't accompany any military loss by the United States - although it was greatly accelerated by the Nationalist Chinese loss in the Chinese Civil War to the Communists and the stalemate of the Korean War. But neither of those was an American military defeat by any stretch of the imagination.
1
What few people living comfortable professional lives really understand is that there is now a very large white underclass in America. These people are poorly educated, economically insecure and furious at what the current political system has done to them. They see that their parents and grandparents had lives of working class stability and viscerally hate everyone and everything that might be responsible for stealing away what they took to be their birthright. They blame the government that brought free trade, elites of all stripes, immigrants and people of color. It is not a big stretch from that already narrow world view to hate all Muslims. These are also people who love anything that upsets the kind of people who read the NY Times every day. Donald Trump knows his audience and is catering to them just as carefully as any politician. He is not signaling his authenticity, he is simply giving voice to their inchoate rage. What Donald Trump's candidacy really shows is the increasing gap between the winners and losers in today's America. The angry, disenchanted white underclass will not go quietly into the night, no matter how much the coastal elites of all political stripes wish it were true.
75
I'm sure your analysis of Trump's popularity is correct, and there is no doubt that enraged underclass exists. The question is, will they vote? And if so, in what kind of numbers? Will that rage drive enough of these people to the polls to get their man elected?
2
I agree with your analysis as well and ask, how can this underclass be made to understand that Republican shenanigans have put them in their predicament? Bernie Sanders' platform's aim is a straightforward effort to improve their lot. The Republican candidates will lie and tell them what they want to hear on all manner of satellite issues and Hillary will seek balance, but if they want better quality of life they had better start Feeling the Bern and get serious about voting in houses of Congress who are feeling it too!
3
I agree with most of this except the snooty dividing lines of superior education and class. There are plenty of historical examples where, when a group feels threatened and seems to be -- or actually is -- losing entitlement, then education, class, and better judgement go right out the window.
2
Or maybe immigration policy is the most important political issue in the world in 2015, as evidence from so many other countries suggest, and Trump, a talented marketer, has discovered a major market niche unserved by other politicians and media?
8
Bingo. The article needlessly complicated the situation.
The idea of "authentic authenticity" and faking authenticity has been covered in an excellent Scientific American psychology blog three-part analysis of Trump's attack on political correctness and his growing appeal as a "non-political" politician back in the summer. Worth checking out.
http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/psysociety/decoding-trump-mania-the-...
All I would add is to paraphrase the old quote about sincerity, which distills the core essence of Trump honed no doubt over decades spent as a real estate shell game artiste who has barely skirted bankruptcy three times: "Authenticity is the most important thing. Once you can fake that, you've really got it made."
http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/psysociety/decoding-trump-mania-the-...
All I would add is to paraphrase the old quote about sincerity, which distills the core essence of Trump honed no doubt over decades spent as a real estate shell game artiste who has barely skirted bankruptcy three times: "Authenticity is the most important thing. Once you can fake that, you've really got it made."
13
I think he is refusing to go along with liberal political correctness, something that endears him to his followers.
3
This is the comment I hear most often from Trump supporters, and I find it interesting that Trump opponents largely ignore it. I've never really understood the origins of the term "political correctness", but it seems to be used only by the far right. I have heard that the term PC came from the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Whatever its origins, it seems to denote a state of controlled speech, where even your neighbors will condemn you if you speak your mind on some forbidden subject. It brings to mind the current trial of an opposition figure in Turkey who suggested in public that Erdogan looked like Gollum.
I also notice that Patrise Henkel used the term PC in a sentence that not only assumed another particular assertion to be a fact, but that also assumed that all readers would agree with him. That other particular assumption is that liberals impose a general ban on the expression of certain ideas. Taken in that light, perhaps Trump is fulfilling the same role for some Americans that Aung San Suu Kyi fulfills for the citizens of Myanmar: someone willing to risk everything in order to express certain forbidden ideas.
I also notice that Patrise Henkel used the term PC in a sentence that not only assumed another particular assertion to be a fact, but that also assumed that all readers would agree with him. That other particular assumption is that liberals impose a general ban on the expression of certain ideas. Taken in that light, perhaps Trump is fulfilling the same role for some Americans that Aung San Suu Kyi fulfills for the citizens of Myanmar: someone willing to risk everything in order to express certain forbidden ideas.
4
I've been in dialog with my Trump-supporting brother, trying to understand the issues. He includes the critique of hate speech with PCness. He also describes political correctness as the attempt to "legislate people's feelings."
It's true, on the left we usually put it quotation marks. in this case, I'm using his label, and owning that I do make an effort to be inclusive and non-alienating in my choice of language. (Most of the time.)
thanks for the info on possible origins of the term.
It's true, on the left we usually put it quotation marks. in this case, I'm using his label, and owning that I do make an effort to be inclusive and non-alienating in my choice of language. (Most of the time.)
thanks for the info on possible origins of the term.
Interesting way to look at Trump's strategy or lack thereof. Certainly a lot of people are tired of "politics as usual" and the Republican field is pretty weak in general. I guess we'll see how it works out for Trump.
3
Seeing that Trump is a businessman, I suspect something more pedestrian, namely Trump is trying to see how much money he can wring out of the Republican party to drop out of the race. Just like hostile takeovers and buying either the stock or the seats on the boards of directors, many of them just want to be paid to go away. Is Trump doing the same thing?
4
Maybe. The self-professed great negotiator demanded $5 million to take part in the next debate. When the organizers said no, his reply: OK. Putin is very afraid.
Except what kind of money is he getting out of the race? He has rendered himself completely toxic to mainstream media and advertisers and has essentially re-branded his name as equivalent to racism and nativism. That plays well in many parts of America but not in the cosmopolitan metropolises in which Trump has his buildings and brands other peoples' buildings. And what company with a brand to protect will want to be associated with a lease at Trump-branded property or a corporate event at a Trump golf course or resort? Plus what city council will give Trump the time of day for any economic incentives or land development assistance to build or redevelop a property?
Trump may be happy with his newfound role as political provocateur but he will soon regret the economic impact it will have on his companies. In fact, he probably regrets it already but obviously can't bring himself to admit something like that out loud.
Trump may be happy with his newfound role as political provocateur but he will soon regret the economic impact it will have on his companies. In fact, he probably regrets it already but obviously can't bring himself to admit something like that out loud.
Really? I didn't hear how that five mill thing turned out. Well, there're your 'yooge deals.'
No doubt that many in the US are seeking authenticity, and in the land of politics, it's pretty much a desert. But when I think of "authentic", Donald Trump is not at the top of my list... not at the bottom... just, not on the list at all.
Capra's Jefferson Smith or George Bailey are authentic, but knowing fiction. Reality TV stars are inauthentic by virtue of their profession, in the case of Trump's TV career, stinking piles of avarice, humiliation and degradation marketed as entertainment.
Perhaps I should have prefaced this comment by mentioning that Wolpers lipstick is a tad smeared.
Capra's Jefferson Smith or George Bailey are authentic, but knowing fiction. Reality TV stars are inauthentic by virtue of their profession, in the case of Trump's TV career, stinking piles of avarice, humiliation and degradation marketed as entertainment.
Perhaps I should have prefaced this comment by mentioning that Wolpers lipstick is a tad smeared.
13
If Trump's voters were only looking for a mold-breaking candidate, Trump could expand his appeal by advocating for ice cream as a breakfast food, or for the abolition of neckties.
Trump voters are looking for an aggressive defense against multicultural threats to white male primacy, unconstrained by respect or good manners (a.k.a. "political correctness").
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
Trump voters are looking for an aggressive defense against multicultural threats to white male primacy, unconstrained by respect or good manners (a.k.a. "political correctness").
politicsbyeccehomo.wordpress.com
44
Um... No. This is disproven by the other Upshot story that shows Trump's biggest supporters are those who fear Muslims the most. So Trump's message is why he has so many supporters, not "Oh I don't like his bigoted message but at least he's authentic."
Sorry but this time the pessimistic explanation seems to be the correct one.
Sorry but this time the pessimistic explanation seems to be the correct one.
49
Clearly, based on polls & personal interviews, Trump supporters, and GOP primary voters, agree with the anti-Muslim policies advocated by Trump and the other trailing GOP candidates. Pretty SURE these voters are LOOKING for bigoted, prejudicial policies.
18
Mr. Trump is indeed signaling something: that he's a fascist.
29
Exactly, True Liberal. This column is a fool's work. See Timothy Egan's essays for a clearer view. The question is, is Trump an authentic fascist? Is he ready for war? Is he prepared to address the mass of supporters whose guns are locked and loaded? The ones ready to march in authentic Klan sheets, waving authentic militia armbands or whatever they wear? Is the Trump tailor now designing a fitting uniform for the leader? Or is Trump more likely to find himself unable to manage his ignorant, fearful army, riled up, armed and ready for a political war it cannot understand? At what point does this cross the line that separates nationalistic free speech from sedition? People can say anything here, perhaps, but Trump rallies his people with something other than "authenticity." Try this: it's the promise of a race war.
Wish I could be this optimistic, Prof. Wolfers, but I prefer hypothesis one: Trump is simply supplying the sorts of proposals an Islamophobic (or more broadly, racist, xenophobic) electorate demands. I do hope you are right and I am wrong.
Regardless of which theory is right, that so many people would rally to someone so obviously trampling on some of our most dearly held American values is very depressing.
Regardless of which theory is right, that so many people would rally to someone so obviously trampling on some of our most dearly held American values is very depressing.
24
What's more depressing, Bill, is that the majority of US voters are so ill informed about important issues that Prof Wolfer's concept re;"authority"
impacting on these individuals rather than factual knowledge ,unfortunately rings true;yet ,they do vote !
impacting on these individuals rather than factual knowledge ,unfortunately rings true;yet ,they do vote !
7
Call me a stick in the mud, but I don't see how you can be seen as authentic and tell such bald faced lies as Donald Trump has. If he was truly authentic, he might use the risky tactic of saying he wanted all Muslims stopped at the border, something no poll driven politician is going to say. Then, he could give reasonable reasons like it is easier and less expensive to just halt all of them than to try to figure out which might be terrorists. Then one could argue whether it was a good policy or a bad policy, but at least Trump could be seen as expressing his true thoughts. Instead his reason is that "thousand and thousands of Muslims cheered in the streets on September 11, 2001, so they must all be terrorists and we should block all of them." Since no one has ever been able to provide evidence for such an event, if those are his true thoughts, he is the one that is in that gullible fringe H. L. Menchen was talking about, not his followers.
17
This is pretty persuasive analysis. Could we also use signaling theory to project what Pres. Trump would do in his first term to demonstrate authenticity to voters considering his re-election? :-)
2
Interesting take on how his supporters think. However, I believe that citing them as truth seekers rather than bigots is a giving a bit too much credit. Americans at large want truth in politics, not just Trump supporters.
42
Ryan,
When have Americans wanted the truth? Never. They vote against the candidate who tells them what the truth is. THe truth can be something they don't want to hear because it conflicts with their own model of the world. Tell Kentuckians that a mine should be shut down and subject to more regulations and they will not support you. Tell gun owners taht more regulation is what is needed to prevent gun deaths and they will rail against you like there's no tomorrow, even if it is the truth. They want to hear what conforms to their beliefs, and not outside of them. It's why many hate Obama so much because he doesn't try to appease specifc groups with colorful language.
When have Americans wanted the truth? Never. They vote against the candidate who tells them what the truth is. THe truth can be something they don't want to hear because it conflicts with their own model of the world. Tell Kentuckians that a mine should be shut down and subject to more regulations and they will not support you. Tell gun owners taht more regulation is what is needed to prevent gun deaths and they will rail against you like there's no tomorrow, even if it is the truth. They want to hear what conforms to their beliefs, and not outside of them. It's why many hate Obama so much because he doesn't try to appease specifc groups with colorful language.
"Soon after his election, Mr. Ventura gave an interview for Playboy magazine in which he said that “organized religion is a sham and a crutch for weak-minded people who need strength in numbers.". there's no courage needed to make this statement AFTER you've been elected. Saying it while you're seeking office is an entirely different matter. Politicians often become 'truth-sayers' after they leave office or when they are not intending to seek re-election. e.g. Obama's and Clinton's support of same sex marriage were examples of 'leading from behind' (supporting a cause that is already generally accepted) while Biden's support of same sex marriage was an example of leading 'from the front'. that's what REAL leaders do.
10
Good point. Ventura was a 1-term governor, and in fact decided not to run for reelection.
2
Two thoughts.
One: does an orange comb-over count as rainbow plumage?
Two: Justin, your risky dating strategy has a long and inglorious history — it's called The Neg — but it only works on 9's and 10's (allegedly), and why on earth would one of them would ever consent to a date with an economist in the first place?
One: does an orange comb-over count as rainbow plumage?
Two: Justin, your risky dating strategy has a long and inglorious history — it's called The Neg — but it only works on 9's and 10's (allegedly), and why on earth would one of them would ever consent to a date with an economist in the first place?
24
Ouch!
2
As much as I don't like Trump, he is proving what we've always suspected, politicians never blame themselves. Trump is their creation, in a more honest and functional political environment rise of a demagogue like him is unlikely. Rest of the field should have recognized that he is just the messenger. If they had owned up to their involvement early on, they could have short circuited his campaign. It may be too late now, why? It will come off as not "authentic".