Donald J Trump, Python Kaa and the Ox That Grew in Seize but Not in Wisdom

Donald J Trump, Python Kaa and the Ox That Grew in Seize but Not in Wisdom

Netherlands, 20.2. 2016

We live in extraordinary and perilous times, where nationalism, racism, and fascism are once again rearing their ugly heads. The rogue Elephant Donald Trump emerges as the latest and most prominent representative of this movement, posing a significant threat to both the United States and the world—one that must be taken very seriously.

Albert Einstein once remarked, “Nationalism is an infantile disease. It is the measles of mankind.” With Donald Trump, a new figure has appeared on the political scene, becoming the narcissistic darling of the “know-nothing” voters. However, there is nothing presidential about Trump. This arrogant man, reminiscent of an ox, grows in size but not in wisdom.

Trump’s daily spectacle is the greatest show on earth, yet what he has displayed so far is deplorable. He exemplifies a populist who lacks empathy, intellectual capacity, and the moral authority to lead, as his entire life testifies. “The Donald” does not read books and cannot be accused of having a vision or a deep understanding of the issues we face or how to address global changes.

Trump reminds me of Kaa, the python in “The Jungle Book,” who sings “Trust in Me” to Mowgli, lulling him to sleep with the intention of consuming him. Similarly, we must be cautious not to be metaphorically devoured by Trump. Like Marine Le Pen, Geert Wilders, and other arrogant populists in Europe, Trump is a dangerous demagogue who offers no real solutions to societal problems. Instead, he wields fear, ignorance, insults, and disinformation, rather than knowledge or understanding. These figures often fizzle out at election time, their appeal short-lived.

A Trump presidency would be disastrous for both the US and the world, as his blatant racism is repugnant and unacceptable, more suited to a Munich beer hall in the 1930s than to modern-day America. Nevertheless, within the GOP, Trump’s brand of ignorance, prejudice, and isolationism has been embraced, revealing a malignant issue that, if not excised, will consume the party from within. Long-held values are being eroded, setting the party back for years to come.

All this evokes memories of our darkest hours, when Jewish refugees were turned away and Japanese Americans were interned. It appears we fail to learn from history and to contextualize events appropriately. Today’s era is different; it is perverse how the US Presidency can now be attained by insignificant individuals.

As Ronald Reagan once observed, “I used to say that politics was the second lowest profession, and I have come to know that it bears a great similarity to the first.”

WJJH-20.2.2016 – Modified 26.7.2024

Musing: The world faces a dangerous resurgence of nationalism, racism, and fascism, embodied by figures like Donald Trump. His rise highlights a worrying trend towards ignorance and prejudice in politics, with potentially catastrophic consequences. This echoes past dark moments and threatens long-held values, demanding vigilance and action to prevent further damage.