We all know how true it is that history repeats itself, as the human race seems incapable of learning from past mistakes, however devastating their effects. A self-obsessed, ruthless, autocratic leader selects a scapegoat group, usually defined by race and creed, and demonises them… initially as part of a political initiative in order to gain power. The leader carefully cultivates his image as a champion of the people, who will tirelessly oppress all those who are imagined to be “anti- Nation”, and publicly declares that he is destined to be remembered as the greatest National leader for over a century. Their election campaign is characterized by racism, religious bigotry, homophobia, by outright lies, and by appealing to the worst, demeaning aspects of human nature. Having gained power, they then quickly set about introducing Legislation which directly discriminates against the scapegoat group on the basis of race and religious belief. Anyone in his administration who has the temerity to disagree with him is quickly ridiculed and removed, and is described as “unpatriotic”. Moreover, facts which clearly and accurately reflect badly on the new administration are not only buried, but are replaced by “alternative facts”, which can otherwise be described as blatant untruths. Carefully selected spokespersons for the new administration perpetuate the big lie, and continue to denigrate and ridicule those who hold alternative views. Propaganda is produced and disseminated on an industrial scale. Agencies which used to play a vital role in advising the leader are marginalised and ignored, as power and decision-making become increasingly centralised and despotic. The use of State-sponsored violence and torture are normalised. Does this sound like post-Weimar Germany in the 1930’s? It certainly describes what happened then, but sadly, it also describes the challenges now faced by the country which was, until recently, the greatest and most powerful democracy on Earth.. the United States of America… Not my business? What is happening there is already causing pain and suffering both at home there and in the wider world, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Depressing times for all of us, and a living nightmare for many…
