The Deification and Demonization of American Politics
Merriam-Webster defines cult as “great devotion to a person, idea, object, movement, or work” and “a usually small group of people characterized by such devotion.” Our bipartisan system fits this description, since the common idea is that you can be either Republican or Democrat, and you must subscribe fully to that party’s ideology. Not to point any fingers, but every Trump rally fits the cult description with disturbing flying colors. It seems that Trump supporters hang onto his every word and believe he has no fault.
Political figures in today's society have been deified. Look up any video about Trump supporters, and you will find countless individuals who equate his words with gospel. Biden, though, may be deified even more than Trump, since he’s hailed as the savior of America. Political extremists and radicals may not be a good basis of political information, but Bidenism has quickly spread across social media and word of mouth. Biden’s popularity lies almost a full six points above Trump's current scores, solely because of Trump's mishandling of most issues that arose during his term, including, but not limited to: Covid-19, collusion with Russia, racism, homophobia, transphobia and xenophobia. Within the world of politics, Trump stands as a god of destruction, and Biden stands as a god of apathy.
On the flip side, the demonization of politics is more common. This is most blatant in two news stations, CNN and Fox News. Both cult “gods” have been very adept at pushing the “us vs. them” ideology this election season. Biden has attempted to defame the President and his claims, saying things like “The violence we’re seeing is in Donald Trump's America” and describing Trump as “An incumbent president who sows chaos rather than providing order.” He paints a picture of a president who has done nothing to unify or progress America in his four years. Meanwhile, Trump is quite adept at demonizing Biden with his witty nicknames like “Creepy Joe” or saying things like “no one will be safe” in Biden's America.
Are you in the cult mindset? If you are worried that you may be, ask yourself these simple questions.
Can I admit my personal choice is not perfect?
Am I willing to see the positive aspects of the other side?
Did I critically think about this issue before forming an opinion, or did I blindly believe whatever my political party said instead of actually thinking for myself?
Alexander Nesmith is a Junior
Communications Major from
Calhoun, Georgia