The Mind of a Cultist

I called them something akin to Scientologists. John Dean went further.

There is more than enough material out there chronicling the utter madness that is Donald Trump and the shit storm he’s created.  I’m not going pile on Trump with piece, but instead want to focus on the crowd he has emboldened to crawl out from under their rocks.

I recently came across a book written by famous Nixon Whitehouse lawyer, John Dean. Authoritarian Nightmare—Donald Trump and his Followers piqued my interest because it looks at what makes the people that follow Trump tick.  Most reasonable, thinking people know Trump is perhaps history’s greatest con man.  But what about his cult?

That’s what I called them in an editorial shortly after the 2020 election, shortly before January 6, and before Dean’s book was published.  Here’s an excerpt:

Several years ago, I read with astonishment about the cult mentality permeating Scientology in the book, “Going Clear.” It chronicled a philosophy of indoctrination that rendered its followers incapable of rational thought. I never thought I’d see that kind of madness catch on in anything other than a fringe in society.

Yet here we are with a cult of millions that make Scientologists look like mainstream Methodists. Many live in the commonwealth and constitute a majority in rural Virginia. You see it the yard signs that still remain up, or the former church in Boones Mill that’s been repurposed as a Trump store, its altar paradoxically transformed.

Dean’s book is a validation of that OpEd and then some.  It fleshes out how these cultists became who they are and how Trump gave them the freedom to reveal themselves.

The book begins by examining the historical roots of authoritarianism and how it has manifested itself throughout different eras. Dean delves into the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to the appeal of authoritarian leaders and their ability to gain and consolidate power. His assertions explain how Trumpers, like my Scientologists analogy, become what they are.

Dean then transitions to the contemporary political climate, highlighting the signs of authoritarianism in today's society. He discusses the erosion of democratic norms, the rise of populism, and the dangers of demagoguery. Drawing parallels to past authoritarian regimes, Dean warns of the potential consequences for civil liberties, human rights, and the rule of law which has only gotten worse since he published his book and I published my OpEd.

Dean also examines the role of technology and social media in the spread of authoritarian ideologies. He explores how misinformation, propaganda, and online echo chambers can manipulate public opinion and fuel the rise of authoritarian movements. If you’ve followed my advocacy on this subject, you know how I feel about what Section 230 is doing to this country.

Dean argues for the importance of media literacy and critical thinking to combat these threats to democracy.

Moreover, Dean offers potential solutions to address the authoritarian challenge. He emphasizes the need for strong institutions, an engaged civil society, and a vigilant citizenry to safeguard democratic values. He proposes strategies to counteract the spread of disinformation and to hold leaders accountable for their actions—words that resonate in 2023 given Trump’s lawlessness.

Throughout the book, John Dean combines historical analysis, political insight, and personal experiences to paint a compelling picture of the authoritarian nightmare facing contemporary society. His work serves as a wake-up call and a call to action, urging readers to recognize the signs of authoritarianism and work towards protecting and preserving democratic principles.

Authoritarian Nightmare is a fascinating look into the minds and behavior of people who just a few short years ago were afraid to come out from under their rocks, but have now been freed thanks to the con man they adore.

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