Beyond Authoritarianism: Understanding Trump’s Patrimonial Rule
Donald Trump’s presidency has defied easy categorization. While terms like fascism, totalitarianism, and authoritarianism have been applied, a more nuanced understanding emerges when considering the concept of patrimonialism. Trump’s assertion that he would be constrained only by his “own morality” signals a dangerous shift – a hallmark of tyranny – away from governance based on institutions, and laws.
The Erosion of Impersonal Authority
Patrimonialism, as described by Jonathan Rauch, isn’t a specific form of government but a style of governing. It replaces formal, impersonal lines of authority with personalized, informal ones built on loyalty and connection. This system rewards friends and punishes enemies, mirroring the dynamics of tribes, gangs, or criminal organizations. This isn’t simply a change in administration; it’s a change in the system of government itself.
Arbitrary Power and the Dehumanizing “Collateral Damage”
The arbitrariness of Trump’s politics is starkly illustrated by incidents like the deaths of US citizens at the hands of ICE agents and the subsequent deaths of dozens more in custody. Framing these events as “collateral damage” – as interpreted by the US administration – isn’t just dehumanizing; it highlights the lack of rational basis for these actions. This erraticism extends to trade tariffs, social media outbursts, and the capricious granting and revocation of loyalty.
Unlike the Cold War rivalry between the US and USSR, which, despite its brutality, operated within a discernible rationality, Trumpian politics appears driven by impulse. While exhibiting traits often associated with fascism – demolition of norms, glorification of violence, undermining elections – these are applied inconsistently and arbitrarily.
Echoes of Ancient Tyranny
To understand this phenomenon, it’s helpful to revisit the classical political philosophy of Plato and Aristotle. They identified tyranny as the most corrupt form of government, where a ruler governs solely in their own self-interest, unbound by law. Trump’s claim of being constrained only by his own morality perfectly embodies this concept. Law, is the guarantor of consistency and reliability, and its absence opens the door to arbitrary rule.
The Rise of the Tyrant: Division and Distraction
Aristotle observed that tyrants often gain power by dividing society along constructed binaries – the rich versus the poor, “real people” versus “elites,” nationals versus foreigners. Trump’s rhetoric frequently employs this tactic, fueling division and suppressing dissent. He fabricates identities and controls populations through fear, distracting them with entertainment – a modern parallel to the Roman concept of “bread and circuses.” The rise of a TV host as president, and the recruitment of figures from the entertainment industry, exemplifies this distraction from substantive political engagement.
The Role of “Sense Perception” and the Fall of Reason
Aristotle warned that tyrants and their followers operate based on “sense perception alone,” devoid of reason, prudence, or morality. This resonates with the current media landscape and the consumption of politics as entertainment. This reliance on superficiality, coupled with the suppression of critical thinking, creates a vulnerability to manipulation and ultimately contributes to the tyrant’s downfall.
Civil Courage and the Path Forward
Aristotle believed that tyranny would ultimately fall due to revolt, fueled by oppression and rising living costs, but contingent on the existence of civil courage. While groups like “Moms Against ICE” demonstrate this courage, there are also troubling signs of acquiescence, particularly among those who benefited from the previous system. The support of tech elites, who previously thrived under liberal policies, raises questions about the erosion of principled opposition.
FAQ
What is patrimonialism? Patrimonialism is a style of governing where personal loyalty and connections replace formal rules and institutions.
How does Trump’s governance differ from traditional authoritarianism? While sharing some characteristics, Trump’s rule is more arbitrary and less ideologically coherent than classic authoritarian regimes.
What role does division play in the rise of tyranny? Tyrants often exploit existing divisions or create new ones to consolidate power and suppress dissent.
What is the importance of civil courage? Civil courage is essential for resisting tyranny and advocating for a more just and equitable society.
Further exploration of these themes can be found in the works of Jonathan Rauch and Neil Postman, as well as the classical texts of Plato and Aristotle.
What are your thoughts on the future of democratic institutions? Share your perspective in the comments below!
