In my opinion, a crucial question in American politics is what is the difference between pro-democracy, pro-truth conservatism and authoritarianism, e.g., as exemplified by MAGA. The future of democracy might depend on the answer, assuming there is a reasonably authoritative answer. At present, most Americans do not appear to believe that MAGA is significantly or mostly authoritarian. MAGA relies heavily on creating a belief that it is merely conservative, while liberals and Democrats generally are authoritarian.
I see MAGA as mostly authoritarian. In my opinion, MAGA is about 70% authoritarian if one could put an estimated number on the question of how much authoritarian is it? I asked Perplexity this question: What are the main similarities and differences between democratic conservatism and authoritarianism such as MAGA, including consideration of important factors such as attitudes toward civil liberties including elections, the distribution of wealth and power, and respect for an impartial rule of law? It responded:
Democratic conservatism and authoritarianism, such as the MAGA wealth and power movement, are two distinct political ideologies. They have significant differences in their approach to governance, civil liberties, elections, wealth distribution, and the rule of law.Both democratic conservatism and authoritarianism often advocate for lower taxes on wealth and limited government regulation of the economy. This reflects a shared belief in the efficacy of free-market principles to drive economic growth. There can be overlap in social policies, particularly concerning issues like immigration restrictions and, in some cases, limited access to abortion, although the motivations and methods tend to differ. Both often emphasize the importance of traditional values, though the interpretation and application of these values can vary widely.Democratic conservatism typically supports civil liberties and rights, including freedom of expression, press, thought, religion, association, and equality before the law. However, there can be nuances, with some conservative groups showing less support for certain civil liberties compared to liberals. Democratic conservatism advocates for competitive elections where multiple parties can participate, ensuring a democratic process where power alternates through free and fair elections.Authoritarianism (MAGA):Often exhibits tendencies to limit civil liberties and human rights, with a focus on maintaining order and control over dissent. This includes a higher willingness to defect from democratic norms and support for anti-democratic candidates. MAGA may not support competitive elections in the same manner, with tendencies towards controlled or noncompetitive elections to maintain legitimacy. The MAGA movement, for instance, has been associated with questioning the integrity of elections and supporting candidates who challenge democratic norms.Distribution of wealth and power:
Democratic conservatism advocates lower taxes and less regulation, but it still operates within a framework that respects the rule of law and democratic principles. There is an acknowledgment of the need for some government intervention to ensure a level playing field, albeit with a preference for market-driven solutions. The distribution of power is intended to be balanced through checks and balances, with an emphasis on individual liberties and property rights.Authoritarianism (MAGA) tends to favor a more centralized control of power, often with less regard for checks and balances. This can lead to a concentration of power in the executive, potentially undermining the separation of powers. Economic policies might favor the elite or specific groups, with less emphasis on equitable distribution of wealth. The focus can be on economic growth and stability as a means to maintain regime legitimacy, sometimes at the expense of broader societal benefits.
Respect for an Impartial Rule of Law:Democratic Conservatism generally supports the rule of law, where laws are applied equally to all citizens, and the judiciary remains independent. This is seen as crucial for maintaining order and protecting individual rights. There is an expectation that government officials are accountable to the law, and the legal system should be transparent and fair.
Authoritarianism (MAGA) often employs rule by law rather than rule of law, where laws are used as tools to maintain power rather than to ensure justice or equality. This can lead to a lack of transparency and accountability. There is a tendency to politicize the judiciary and other institutions, potentially undermining their independence and impartiality.Conclusion:While democratic conservatism and authoritarianism share some economic and social policy preferences, their approaches to governance, civil liberties, elections, and the rule of law diverge significantly. Democratic conservatism operates within a framework that values democratic principles, individual liberties, and the rule of law, albeit with a conservative interpretation. In contrast, authoritarianism, as exemplified by movements like MAGA, often prioritizes control, order, and the maintenance of power, sometimes at the expense of democratic norms and civil liberties. These differences highlight the fundamental tension between democratic governance and authoritarian tendencies, with implications for the health and stability of democratic institutions.
I generally agree with the answer Perplexity generated.
The point I wanted to make here is that there are valid reasons to see MAGA as more authoritarian than pro-democracy. From what I can tell lots of Americans, probably most (~60% ?), disagree with that. MAGA supporters firmly argue that MAGA is solidly pro-democracy, civil liberties and the rule of law. But that is something I simply cannot see or agree with.
The more informed MAGA supporters and non-MAGA conservatives who deny that MAGA authoritarianism is significant point to various exceptions as proof of MAGA's non-authoritarian mindset or ideology. As I engage with those exceptions and arguments, it seems more and more like engaging with climate science deniers who assert various exceptions or arguments contrary to existing climate science data and its interpretation by overwhelming expert consensus. For the most part, those minds cannot be persuaded by contrary facts or sound reasoning. They have their reality and reasoning, but I have mine. The two tend to be incompatible and irreconcilable.
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For the wonks who want to go deeper:
Q2: How does the comparison change when moral factors are included in democratic conservatism vs MAGA authoritarianism, e.g., (i) reliance on demagoguery vs honest speech, (ii) reliance on reasonable intellectual rationality, and (iii) reliance on transparent intellectual consistency vs double standards, opacity, and deceit.A2: When examining the moral dimensions of democratic conservatism and MAGA authoritarianism, several key differences emerge, particularly in the following areas:Reliance on Demagoguery vs. Honest Speech:Democratic Conservatism: This ideology traditionally values honest speech and the integrity of political discourse. While there can be instances of exaggeration or spin, the overarching principle is to engage in policy debates with a foundation of truth and respect for facts. The emphasis is on presenting arguments that can withstand scrutiny and are based on evidence, even if the interpretation of that evidence might differ from liberal viewpoints.MAGA Authoritarianism: MAGA, as exemplified by Trumpism, often relies on demagoguery, characterized by emotional manipulation, exaggeration, and sometimes outright deceit. Trump's speeches and public statements frequently employ pathos to incite fear, anger, and a sense of righteous indignation among his supporters. This approach is designed to bypass rational analysis and appeal directly to the emotions of the audience, often at the expense of factual accuracy or logical consistency.
Reliance on Reasonable Intellectual Rationality:Democratic Conservatism: There is a strong emphasis on intellectual rationality within democratic conservatism. Policy positions are often justified through reasoned arguments, economic theories, and historical precedents. While there might be disagreements on the interpretation of data or the efficacy of certain policies, the process of debate is expected to be grounded in rational discourse.MAGA Authoritarianism: MAGA's approach to rationality is often overshadowed by its reliance on emotional appeals and a rejection of established facts or expert consensus when they conflict with its narrative. This can lead to a dismissal of intellectual rigor in favor of a more visceral, gut-level reaction to political issues. The movement's skepticism of institutions, including academia and the media, further undermines the value placed on intellectual rationality.Reliance on Transparent Intellectual Consistency vs. Double Standards, Opacity, and Deceit:Democratic Conservatism: Intellectual consistency is a hallmark of democratic conservatism. While there can be shifts in policy or ideological evolution, these changes are typically justified through a framework of principles and values that are transparently communicated. The expectation is that political leaders will adhere to these principles, even when it's politically inconvenient.MAGA Authoritarianism: MAGA often exhibits a lack of transparency and intellectual consistency. There is a tendency to employ double standards, where rules and norms are applied selectively to favor the movement's goals or to protect its leaders. This can manifest in the form of opacity regarding policy details, shifting positions without clear justification, and a willingness to engage in deceit or misrepresentation when it serves the political agenda.
Conclusion:The moral comparison between democratic conservatism and MAGA authoritarianism reveals stark contrasts. Democratic conservatism, while not immune to political maneuvering, generally operates within a framework that values honesty, intellectual rigor, and consistency. In contrast, MAGA authoritarianism, as embodied by Trumpism, often prioritizes emotional manipulation, rejects established facts when inconvenient, and employs tactics that can be seen as deceitful or opaque. These differences highlight a fundamental divergence in how each ideology approaches governance, public discourse, and the moral foundations of political leadership. The ongoing battle for the hearts and minds of future generations, as noted by Millman, underscores the significance of these moral distinctions in shaping the future of American democracy.
And that is why I keep harping on the moral aspect of dishonest speech and politics. Lies, deceit and crackpot reasoning take power and freedom from deceived people to freely decide and act on the basis of facts, true truths and sound reasoning. MAGA required dark free speech or demagoguery to rise to power. It will continue to require dishonesty and deceit to stay in power unless it can subvert elections before the 2026 mid-terms.
