The Mob Mentality - as American as Apple Pie?

A homeless man died by the hands of a person who pledged an oath to protect him. Another man was assassinated by a person who felt the country’s health care system was unfair. These people lost their lives, and America (the mob applauded).

The fall of the Roman Empire stands as a stark cautionary tale in the annals of history. As the citizenry became increasingly divided, turned against one another, and gave in to the seductive allure of mob mentality, the very foundations and institutions of this once-mighty civilization crumbled. Rhetoric steeped in hatred and dehumanization festered, transforming ordinary citizens into an uncontrollable conscience of the mob, ready to unleash violence upon their fellow Romans. Similarly, in contemporary America, we find ourselves at a crossroads, where the alarming rise of hate speech and divisive rhetoric threatens to lead us down a dangerous path. The interplay of dehumanization, the normalization of bad behavior, and the marginalization of opposing political ideas are not mere political strategies; they are direct indicators of violence in our society.

Dehumanization of Fellow Americans

At the core of societal violence lies the dehumanization of those who hold opposing views. When we see our fellow Americans not as individuals worthy of respect and dignity but as caricatures or enemies, we strip them of their humanity. Rhetoric that labels others as “vermin” or “traitors” creates a dangerous detachment, allowing individuals to justify violence against those they perceive as less than human. History has shown us that once this line is crossed, the consequences are dire. The echoes of such language resonate through history, leading to persecution, violence, and even genocide. In today’s political landscape, the dehumanization of opponents is alarmingly prevalent, making it easier for individuals to rationalize aggressive actions against those they’ve been led to believe are threats to their very existence.

Normalizing and Rewarding Bad Behavior

The normalization of bad behavior in political discourse further advances the risk of violence. When elected officials and public figures engage in destructive rhetoric (some call it free speech) without consequence, they inadvertently send a message that such behavior is acceptable—even commendable. This creates a culture where aggression and hostility are not only tolerated but celebrated. The troubling rise of mob-like reactions to political events, where individuals feel empowered to resort to violence or intimidation, is a testament to this phenomenon. When society begins to applaud those who act out violently or express hatred, we are collectively endorsing a dangerous playbook that erodes our social fabric. The consequences of such normalization can be catastrophic, as seen in instances of political violence that have shocked the nation.

Marginalizing Opposing Political Ideas

Lastly, the marginalization of opposing political ideas is a recipe for unrest. When dissenting viewpoints are not only dismissed but actively ridiculed or silenced, we create an environment ripe for conflict. This marginalization breeds resentment and alienation, prompting those whose voices are stifled to react with anger and desperation. A healthy democracy thrives on debate and the exchange of ideas; when we deny this fundamental principle, we risk fueling the very violence we seek to prevent. The rhetorical strategies employed by some to belittle or vilify opponents not only undermine our political discourse but also create an atmosphere where violence becomes an appealing option for those who feel cornered.

As we reflect on our current political climate, it is crucial to recognize that America is becoming a mob. The echoes of history serve as a powerful reminder of what can happen when rhetoric spirals out of control and hate speech becomes the norm. We have the blueprint of the past laid out before us; will we heed its warnings, or will we repeat the mistakes of those who came before us? It is not too late to reclaim our discourse, to foster empathy, and to cultivate a society where every American is treated with dignity and respect. I am an optimist but the choice is ours, and the time to act is now.

I plan to read 3 books recommendations on this subject matter. I've included the links below. I'll recap this blog after the read.

1. The fall of America (collection of poetry) by Allen Ginsberg

2. The fall of America - Elijah Muhammad

3. When at Times the Mob Is Swayed: A Citizen’s Guide to Defending Our Republic - Burt Neuborne

Thomas Y. Lynch

"He'll bring them death...and they will love him for it"

Excerpt from the movie Gladiator (2000)