My collegues and I had a robust discussion today about how leaders ( good or bad) will use external concepts to support their ambitions.  Things like religion, race, culture, language and so on.

Real or Imagined Differences

The most common theme focuses on the percieved danger by tolerating and co-existing with those who practice different religions, cultural behaviours or speak a foreign language.

The funny thing is most of these practices have more in common than differences.  Religion is a prime example of these.

The names of the religions and their detailed behaviours may vary, however, on the whole all religions acknowledge a higher power (some deity) and profess to follow a basic set of values commonly recognized by humans as good.

That is respect of others, charity , humility, honesty and the list continues.  So why do followers cast these beliefs aside and wage wars, torture and humiliate others in the name of their religions.

Power Grab

Sadly , persuasive leaders can use things like religion, culture, race, etc. to encite actions in their followers.  Not surprising, on the whole the prime objective is to benefit the leader.

The use of misdirection and scapegoating are well known and effective techniques to build a power base.  This is a well known way to leverage the emotions of the masses to your bidding.

And throughout history repeated misuse of this technique leads to takeovers of countries, wars and violence/ death of many innocent millions.   We see it, we document it, but we have not stopped it.

Take a moment to think about the current US presidential race.  Donald Trump’s huge popularity and rise to power is just another clear example of this type of misuse.

In this case abuse of other cultures (Muslims, Mexicans and others)  are one of his key stepping stones to popularity and yet conceptually his prejudices go against the basic human value of respect for all.

And yet, he still may be elected.