I understand your position but I think you’re wrong. Fascists always, without exception, need a “charismatic” leader like the Nazis with Hitler or the Russians with Putin. There’s currently only Trump who can fill that role. It’s of course possible that another such person appears out of nowhere, but I don’t see anyone on their side. Trump was a TV star and tacky racist celeb (birthed) since the 80s. His brand isn’t new, he build it over a long time. Who do you think would fill his shoes if yesterday’s attempt had succeeded? There’s no one.

[–] kaffiene@lemmy.world 6 points 5 months ago

Raegan was a similar character previously. I don't doubt they will arise again. Certainly, there are many Republicans with the same reactionary politics.

[–] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 4 points 5 months ago (1 children)

This is Great Man Theory. Trump would not be popular if his policies and stances weren't popular, and there are plenty of replacements.

[–] suction@lemmy.world -1 points 5 months ago (1 children)

Yet who is a better fit for that theory than Trump, from the perspective of his fans, at least?

[–] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 3 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

That's not what Great Man Theory is. Trump is an excellent example of why Great Man Theory is wrong. Great Man Theory just states that history is guided by influential figures, which is wrong. The Material Conditions of society determine what ideas dominate, and thus people appearing to be influential become popular.

[–] suction@lemmy.world 0 points 5 months ago (1 children)

Oh someone took a semester of social sciences! Way to go, son!

[–] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 1 points 5 months ago (1 children)

What are you trying to do? Legitimately, what is your goal here? To say I don't know what Great Man Theory actually is?

[–] suction@lemmy.world 1 points 5 months ago* (last edited 5 months ago) (1 children)

You're arguing whether the GM theory is right or wrong, I'm saying to Trump supporters, it doesn't matter, he's their "Great Man", they've fallen for the idea that a Great Man will fix all their problems. Because they are stupid and believe in false ideals. That's why I'm getting the impression you're trying to show off how much you know instead of engaging with the actual topic. Do you need a pat on the back?

[–] Cowbee@lemmy.ml 1 points 5 months ago

You're arguing whether the GM theory is right or wrong

Not quite. I know it's wrong, my argument is that your analysis of Trump is wrong because it assumes Great Man Theory is correct, ie Trump's views will die with him and there couldn't be a successor.

I'm saying to Trump supporters, it doesn't matter, he's their "Great Man", they've fallen for the idea that a Great Man will fix all their problems. Because they are stupid and believe in false ideals.

This isn't Great Man Theory on the part of Trump Supporters. Trump Supporters hold fascist views because of their material conditions, not because Trump convinced them to.

That's why I'm getting the impression you're trying to show off how much you know instead of engaging with the actual topic. Do you need a pat on the back?

No, I genuinely was making a point, attacking it for having an understood meaning undermines your position.