In his book, “The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness,” Eric Fromm analyzes sadism driven by the need to dominate. He concludes that a sadistic leader’s drive logically leads to the massive destruction of a Hitler.
It is “character-rooted,” lacking empathy, facts and truth.
Dr. John Gartner believes that Trump suffers from a character defect and mental illness identical to that of Hitler, Mussolini and Stalin.
But do Trump’s words “cause” gun massacres? No. They happened before Trump. The path to destructiveness is not so straight. Like other narcissists and sadists, Trump inflames the kindling and radicalizes the “persuadable.” He speaks in code to white nationalists and fellow travelers who hate people of color and immigrants.
So is it reasonable to question Trump’s decision to raise the flag from half-staff on Aug. 8 or 8-8? One of the most common white supremacist symbols, 88 (HH in the alphabet for Heil Hitler) is used throughout the entire white supremacist movement. Frank Figliuzzi, former assistant director for counterintelligence at the FBI, thinks it’s a reasonable question.
Trump speaks solely for the political purposes of domination and control. He’s in it for himself. But what is the potential cost for all of us?
Increased mass shootings? Probably.
Rise of white nationalist violence? Most likely.
Erosion of American freedoms at home and pro-democracy efforts abroad? Seemingly.
Alliance with fascist resurgence and Russian influence throughout Europe and the world? Happening.
Ken White
Marysville
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