A person's response to the 'dumb voter problem' is a powerful litmus test. If they believe people who vote for things they hate should be prevented from voting, it reveals a foundational lack of faith in democracy and a lean towards authoritarian solutions.

Historian Heather Cox Richardson rejects the 'great man' theory, arguing that transformative leaders like Abraham Lincoln don't just appear. Instead, they are the product of a popular intellectual ferment that crystallizes into a new ideology, which a skillful politician then articulates.

A key tactic of charismatic leaders is to position themselves as revealing a secret truth that established institutions have concealed. This 'pulling back the veil' can be used for positive social change, like Martin Luther King Jr., or to spread disinformation and undermine credible sources.

Sam Harris argues that figures like RFK Jr. don't abolish the concept of expertise; they just redefine it. Their followers simply anoint new "experts," like Alex Jones or Joe Rogan on certain topics, who align with their pre-existing beliefs, regardless of actual credentials or a track record of being wrong.

Heather Cox Richardson argues that Trump's hallmark isn't just being a con man, but finding workarounds to rules. This resonates with followers who view it not as corruption, but as 'smart business,' which fundamentally denigrates the rule of law.

Populist figures don't create societal problems; they rise to power because existing economic and social issues create an environment where their message resonates. To solve the problem, you must address the underlying conditions, not just the leader who represents them.

Galloway says postwar prosperity came from cooperation built on evidence, argument, history, norms, science and logic. When leaders instead cite an "invisible friend" and believe their values are divinely superior, bridge-building becomes impossible and the entire global system is at risk. Richardson agrees.

Historian Heather Cox Richardson warns against a trend where leaders believe they can solve complex problems like Middle East peace without relevant experience. This devaluing of credentialed experts in favor of loyalists guts government competence, as Americans take for granted the expertise required for effective governance.

The tactic of stoking fear about an existential threat (e.g., "AI will kill us all") to justify a need for centralized control is a historical constant. This pattern, seen in early religious and political institutions, leverages fear to persuade the public to cede power and authority to a select few who claim they can provide protection.