The Philosophy of Trumpism: Origins and Evolution
Trumpism, a term often associated with the political movements and philosophies of former US President Donald Trump, continues to be a subject of intense debate and analysis. This essay seeks to illuminate what Trumpism truly represents, its origins, and its evolution over time. Contrary to the popular belief that Trumpism is a purely modern phenomenon, its roots can be traced back to earlier American history and sociopolitical movements.
Defining Trumpism
Believing in enforcing our borders, speaking English, and protecting American culture are key tenets that have become associated with Trumpism. However, these beliefs are not unique to Trump; they are longstanding ideas that have shaped American political and social discourse for centuries. A significant challenge in defining Trumpism lies in identifying its core philosophical underpinnings. Trump's political strategies and statements often pivot on his immediate interests and the prevailing political climate, rather than on coherent, stable principles.
Political Philosophy or Self-Interest?
Trump is frequently criticized for being a self-serving, power-hungry individualist who places little value on the wider public good. His political statements and policies often shift based on his immediate whims and the political landscape. This characteristic renders any overarching definition of Trumpism elusive. Unlike traditional political philosophers, Trump does not advocate for a set of principles that can be consistently applied to diverse situations. Instead, his rhetoric often serves as a tool to appeal to his base and garner support in the short term.
Origins of Trumpism
The term "Trumpism" did not suddenly emerge in 2016 or even in the early 2010s. Rather, its roots can be traced back to earlier American political and social movements. White supremacy, Republican nationalism, and conservative ideology have long been present in American society, and Trumpism can be seen as a contemporary manifestation of these long-standing beliefs.
Early Forms of Trumpism
As early as 2008, there were online advocates of a political philosophy that echoed Trumpist tenets. White supremacists were already advocating for the idea of "making America great again," albeit with their own unique, often hateful and discriminatory, interpretations. An example of this is a blog post from 2008, which asserted that certain politicians, including Democrats like Hillary Clinton, were more deserving of "the rope" than random black or Asian individuals. This viewpoint was entirely antithetical to democratic values and representative of an extreme form of Trumpism.
2013: The White Supremacist Manifesto
In 2013, a YouTube video by a user named Storm Clouds Gathering showcased a video about a white supremacist website. While many elements of this video were heavily censored, there were still enough uncensored parts to provide insight into the organization's goals. These goals included allowing the economy to collapse and instituting a white supremacist theocratic regime by 2025. The video highlights how early forms of Trumpist-like philosophy were present in the online sphere well before Trump's 2016 campaign.
Alex Jones and the NWO
In mid-2010, during a regular listening of the Alex Jones Show, it was proposed that re-educating the public and halting all immigration for at least 10 years were necessary steps for reclaiming America. While Alex Jones was once a strong critic of racism, he gradually shifted his stance. This evolution highlights how certain ideologies and philosophies can morph and become more extreme over time, particularly when aligned with monetary incentives and broadening support bases.
Modern Implications of Trumpism
While the roots of Trumpism can be traced back to earlier sociopolitical movements, modern social media and the internet have significantly amplified its reach and influence. Platforms like YouTube and social media channels have become breeding grounds for extremist ideologies, including those that align with Trumpism.
The Role of Social Media
Online forums and social media have allowed for the rapid spread of misinformation and extremist views. These platforms have created echo chambers where individuals can consume content that reinforces their existing beliefs without being challenged by alternative perspectives. The accessibility of these platforms has made it easier for fringe ideologies to gain traction and spread.
Overall, Trumpism represents a unique blend of long-standing American political and sociological concepts, reimagined for a new era. While it may have emerged prominently in Trump's political campaigns, its roots can be traced back to earlier movements and ideologies. Understanding the origins and evolution of Trumpism is crucial for grasping the complex and multifaceted nature of modern American politics.
Conclusion
Tracing the origins of Trumpism from white supremacy and conservative ideology to its role in the internet age provides a nuanced understanding of this political philosophy. While Trump's presidency brought these ideas to the forefront, they are part of a longer historical narrative. As society continues to evolve, so too will the ideas and movements that shape American politics.