Mocking the Tyrants: A Democratic Strategy
This is pretty short and sweet, because the point is clear.
Why Mockery Works
Mock the fascists. Mock the would-be tyrants. Mock Trump and his enablers.
Mockery is their Kryptonite. It’s what fascists and bullies are really afraid of.
The Power of Fear and Anger
We already know that the bad guys here run on fear and anger, right? Certainly the fear and anger of their supporters. Make people afraid and they will give you lots of power to save them. Make them angry—at the right targets—and they will be rabid followers.
But that goes the other way as well. They want us—the other side—to be full of fear and anger as well.
Fear as a Tool
Naturally, they want us to be afraid of them. That’s the source of their power. That’s what attracts their followers. The worst entities—the KKK, radical Communists, the Nazis—never thought of persuasion as a road to power. It was a lot more direct: do what we say or we’ll hurt you. We’ll hurt you if you try and stop us, and we’ll hurt you if you help the other side. If we can’t hurt you, we’ll hurt your family and friends.
Anger as a Weapon
But they also want us to be angry. Angry that they can “get away with it” and can’t be stopped. Angry that they can stop us, and angry that we can’t stop them. Getting the other side angry comes a close second to making them afraid.
How Bullies React
And when faced with this anger, what do they usually do? Laugh. Not only do they enjoy it, they enjoy any inability for our side to change it. The bullies love to mock their victims. Because if you’ve convinced the other side that they can’t do anything, the next step for that other side is despair and hopelessness. And then you’ve really won.
What Does Mockery from Us Do?
It tells them that we’re not afraid of them. It tells them that, while we may be angry, we’re not going to give them the satisfaction of seeing or feeling it. Because we’ll be too busy working to defeat them and making fun of them while we do it.
All of which means:
- They don’t get to feed off any fear or anger from us.
- They don’t get to drive us into despair.
- In short, they don’t feel any power over us because we deny it to them. Every time we ridicule them.
Why This Strategy Works
I realize this won’t work every time and place, but it will work more often than not. But the key thing is that you kid and tease people you like: you mock and ridicule people that you don’t respect. And aren’t afraid of.
The Core of the MAGA Movement
That is the core of the whole MAGA movement, from Trump on down. Scared white folks and scared right-wing Christians are feeling the country slip away from them. They don’t feel that they are in the driver’s seat and in control of everything at all times…because they aren’t.
Trump and MAGA were the solutions to that problem for that population. The longstanding tribes of America that now were seeing the other side get more power and their way more often. (That happens when you’re the majority.) It was all unsettling and even an existential crisis for some of them. “There won’t be an America anymore if the Democrats win!” Oh, sure there will. Just not their idea of one.
Trump’s Appeal to MAGA
The entire point of Trump is that he can bully, be a boor, be an idiot, corrupt, and break all the rules that MAGA types say they care about…and still get their votes. Ha ha, libs! Obama can never be angry and Hillary is never perfect enough. But our boy Trump can do everything wrong and we still back him.
That includes attacking and insulting everyone and everything on the other side.
The 2016 Election
In 2016, MAGA rode a sugar high of Trump dissing Obama and berating the hated Hillary Clinton. They didn’t want the usual polite dismissals of normie Republicans: they wanted the mean and nasty that Trump brought. The reaction from our side was a combination of ignoring Trump, disgust, and dread. In other words, exactly what the MAGA base fed off of. They had the “power.” They didn’t suffer any losses for transgressing the norms, but the Democrats and liberals were still being held to the standard of being “nice and fair.” (Even though that shouldn’t be the case. But the Pundit Police said otherwise we would lose those up-for-grabs voters, right?)
Turning the Tables
Now the tables have turned.
We aren’t being mean or nasty. But we are making fun of Trump, Vance, and the rest of them. And they deserve it.
The Power of the Word “Weird”
A quick salute to the word “weird.” You know why this has landed? Say that the other side is “evil” and you’re going to sound overly dramatic. Say that the other side is “dangerous” and you actually feed into their narrative (because they want you to feel that they are). Say that the other side is “stupid” and you’re probably completely correct…but now you’re the rude and mean one.
But to say that the other side is “weird”…that puts them in the Goldilocks spot. You’re not saying all the things mentioned above (though they may still be true), but you are effectively labeling them as something that no one really wants. You don’t stay up at night worrying about “weird.” You don’t want to punch “weird” in the face. You just don’t want it around.
Our Strategy
Mock them as if you are the host of The Daily Show or any late-night talk outfit. When faced with their anger, give them your ridicule. When faced with their threats, dismiss them as weird.
We Are the Majority
We are the majority and the issues are on our side. We just have to show everyone that should be voting for us that we’re fine, they’re weird, and we’re not afraid of Trump and his cult.
Frequently Asked Questions About the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy
This FAQ is designed to address common questions and concerns related to the “Mock Them, It Works” strategy, which has been a topic of discussion in recent political discourse. The strategy involves using satire and ridicule to counter opponents’ arguments and undermine their credibility. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
What is the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy?
The “Mock Them, It Works” strategy is a political tactic that involves using satire, ridicule, and humor to counter opponents’ arguments and undermine their credibility. This approach aims to make opponents appear foolish or weak by highlighting the absurdity or inconsistency in their positions.
How Does the Strategy Work?
The strategy works by leveraging the power of humor and satire to create a narrative that portrays opponents as out of touch or lacking in substance. By using irony, sarcasm, and other forms of ridicule, proponents of this strategy aim to shift public opinion against their opponents and gain an advantage in political discourse.
What Are Some Examples of the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy in Action?
- Political Satire:** Shows like “The Daily Show” and “Saturday Night Live” often use satire to mock politicians and their policies.
- Social Media Campaigns:** Social media platforms have been used extensively to create memes and viral content that ridicules political opponents.
- Public Events:** Protest rallies and public events have seen the use of satire and ridicule to counter opposing viewpoints.
Is the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy Effective?
The effectiveness of the “Mock Them, It Works” strategy can vary depending on the context and audience. In some cases, it can be highly effective in shifting public opinion and undermining opponents’ credibility. However, it can also backfire if it is perceived as overly aggressive or insensitive.
What Are Some Potential Risks Associated with the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy?
- Backlash:** Opponents may retaliate with their own forms of ridicule, potentially leading to a cycle of escalating negativity.
- Sensitivity:** The use of satire and ridicule can be sensitive to different audiences, potentially alienating certain groups or individuals.
- Legitimacy:** Overuse or misuse of the strategy can lead to accusations that one’s own arguments lack substance or merit.
How Does the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy Differ from Traditional Political Discourse?
The “Mock Them, It Works” strategy differs from traditional political discourse in its use of humor and satire to engage with opponents. Unlike traditional debates which focus on logical arguments and facts, this strategy relies on creating a narrative that is often more emotional and persuasive than factual.
Can the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy Be Used by Any Political Party or Individual?
The “Mock Them, It Works” strategy can be used by any political party or individual who is comfortable with using satire and ridicule in their communication. However, its effectiveness depends on the context and audience, as well as the ability to execute it without appearing overly aggressive or insensitive.
What Role Does Social Media Play in the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy?
Social media plays a crucial role in the “Mock Them, It Works” strategy by providing a platform for rapid dissemination of satirical content. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook are often used to create and share memes, videos, and other forms of humorous content that ridicule political opponents.
How Can One Ensure That the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy Is Used Ethically?
To ensure that the “Mock Them, It Works” strategy is used ethically, it is important to consider the potential impact on different audiences and avoid using content that could be perceived as overly aggressive or insensitive. Additionally, transparency about the use of satire and ridicule can help maintain credibility and avoid accusations of dishonesty.
What Are Some Best Practices for Implementing the “Mock Them, It Works” Strategy?
- Know Your Audience:** Understand who your audience is and tailor your message accordingly to avoid alienating certain groups.
- Be Authentic:** Ensure that your satire and ridicule are genuine and not just superficial attempts to mock opponents.
- Stay Focused:** Avoid getting sidetracked by personal attacks and stay focused on the issues at hand.
Conclusion
The “Mock Them, It Works” strategy is a complex and multifaceted approach to political discourse that can be both effective and risky. By understanding its potential benefits and pitfalls, individuals and political parties can use this strategy ethically and effectively to engage with their opponents in a way that resonates with their audience.
