Without moral constraint you can promise everything

#237

My Dear Friend of Democracy,

Why does Viktor Orbán have broad support in Hungary? Why was Donald Trump re-elected to the White House?

Probably not because people like to live in authoritarian states.

However, people want a life that is as carefree as possible. Where they can do whatever they want. Where they can live as they have always lived. Where they can live without moral conflicts.

Populists promise exactly that. They promise problem-solving without moral constraint. If climate change is not man-made, you can continue driving combustion engines without feeling guilty. If the pandemic never happened, you don't have to fear dangerous viruses. If men and women naturally have predetermined roles, then you are less responsible for your own path in life. If migrants are to blame for everything, you don't have to question your behaviour.

Populists promise such things. And obviously, enough people believe in this land of milk and honey.

But this promise will never be fulfilled. Not least because populists tend to turn to autocrats. Because populists lack morals. They don't care about the well-being of other people. They only think about themselves. Increasing their power and wealth is their only agenda.

They even kill democracy to stay in power. Then, a carefree life is over for almost everybody. Just not for those in power.

✊ Populists become autocrats. History tells. We should explain this connection more often to fans of populists.

See you in Europe,

Johannes