re: #128 BigPapa

No doubt there is a component of destruction required in authoritarianism. The concept of ‘the people’ needs to be remodeled dramatically. I’ve been in construction biz for 30+ years and I’m struck by the analogy of a minor remodel vs a full gut vs a complete demo/bulldozer (which isn’t a remodel). Much of authoritarianism cannot be based on a foundation of education, empowerment, of/for/by the people. That all needs to go away. One of the best ways to achieve that is to destroy truth itself. Disinformation and conspiracy are extremely effective at that. Lies don’t need to convince you their true: they’re still effective if they wear you down and you DGAF any more.

To me, it’s no coincidence that conspiracies spread during times of crisis. That could be during a pandemic, economic downturn, or general upheaveal. It’s why I’ve always worried that Trumpism’s most dangerous effects would be in a time like where we are now even though I’m more optimistic than most lizards about Biden beating Trump.