Cassandra Vs Jonas: The Heuristic of Fear (US Presidential Race)

In this article, we will delve into the recent developments in the Presidential Race and broader political events of the past few years, analyzing them through the lens of the late French professor and intellectual giant, René Girard. We will refer to his theory of mimetic desire to understand the dynamics at play in contemporary politics.

Return to True Politics

Kamala Harris follows in Biden’s footsteps, advocating for a strong economy that prioritizes the needs of everyday Americans. She represents a revival of genuine political leadership grounded in service rather than self-interest. The middle class, in particular, finds a relatable figure in Harris, identifying with her in ways they used to with the most eminent politicians in the American History. It’s not just her identity or background that draws them in, but the substance of her discourse and her ideas.

Harris’s appeal lies in her ability to address the concerns of ordinary citizens without falling into the trap of ego-driven politics. Unlike Trump, who often appears focused on self-promotion and personal accolades, Harris presents herself as a leader whose vision extends beyond individual gain.

A Mimetic Intelligent electorate?

Trump, alongside J.D. Vance and influencers like Peter Thiel (who studied under Professor René Girard), have very well understood the mimetic nature of humans—the easily observable tendency to imitate the actions and desires of others—at the most primal instinct level. It is true that crowds tend to behave in herd behavior. However, they have mistaken this mimetic tendency for a sign that people are mere sheep, incapable of independent thought. Unfortunately for them, the electorate is outsmarting them. Crowds are no longer as easily manipulated and have reacquired their mimetic intelligence. They underestimate the electorate, viewing them as easily manipulated rather than as thinking individuals with their own concerns and aspirations.

What Trump fails to recognize is that the American people have developed their own mimetic intelligence. They are no longer falling for Trump’s theatrics and spectacles. The electorate has matured, understanding that they hold the true power in the political process. This is not a mindless crowd, but an informed and conscious collective that recognizes it. Trump’s manipulation of the crowd, through his inflammatory rhetoric, insults, and attacks, reveals his belief that the masses are simply there to be riled up—an image of a crowd ready to lynch at his command.

In contrast, the voters seem to be ready for Kamala Harris, as it doesn’t expect reciprocal demagoguery from her. We are witnessing the dawn of a more mature electorate, confident in its understanding of its role in democracy. Harris’s supporters are not just excited by her as a leader; they carry her forward with an awareness of the mimetic mechanisms at play. They are not driven by the same visceral excitement that Trump’s followers experience, but by a deeper understanding of the stakes and the power they wield.

Professor René Girard once expressed fascination with the American people, noting how they often flirt with the abyss but manage to pull back just in time. Today’s America is showcasing this very mimetic intelligence, demonstrating an awareness of the dangers that lie in blind imitation and the importance of thoughtful, informed decision-making. The electorate is no longer simply reacting; they are consciously shaping the direction of their country, with a clear understanding of the power and responsibility that comes with it. Harris’s supporters are informed, knowledgeable, and aware of the pitfalls of mimetic desire. They are not just followers; they are empowered citizens, actively participating in the creation of a more mature and resilient America.

A Crisis of Integrity

The USA is in a period of crisis, with a Supreme Court that is unaccountable, and prone to ideological decisions. This highlights the limitations of the current US judiciary system, and of the electoral process, where the candidate with the majority of votes does not necessarily win due to the Electoral College system. There is a growing call to move to a healthier system with a robust judiciary and a fair political process—qualities that Harris, as the former attorney general of California, and a political figure, embodies.

Trump thrives on the presence of an audience to fuel his motivation, reflecting a kind of narcissism. The U.S. needs a leader who is honest, morally strong, and accountable—not a demagogue. Harris could be the one to restore the dignity of the U.S., sending a powerful signal both domestically and internationally.

Trump has been leading his politics in the most archaic way possible. As René Girard famously observed, a king can behave in ways that ordinary mortals cannot. Despite the numerous scandals and controversies that have surrounded him—whether it was the attack on the Capitol, his attempts to undermine the election results, or his various personal affairs—Trump remains a formidable figure in the political arena. Many expected these events to mark the end of his political career, but he continues to stand resilient, defying the norms and expectations that would have brought down any other politician. Trump is behaving as the most sacred king.

Harris, on the other hand, embodies a more modern approach to politics, one that is grounded in principles of accountability, integrity, and public service.

Cassandra vs Jonas.

In 2016, no one expected Trump to win. The American public was taking for granted, epitomized by Clinton reserving a massive venue to celebrate her anticipated victory. But the voters resented being flouted. It appears that the same mistake is being made today by Trump. His tenure revealed the weaknesses in the American system, that he exploited for his own agenda. This time, people fear the real possibility of Trump being re-elected.

The public has realized this and demonstrated resilience, becoming acutely aware of the dangers of a new Trumps tenure. Biden himself said today that it was his “obligation to the country” to drop out of the presidential race. He made it clear that his choice was driven by a sense of duty to protect the country from what he perceives as the dangers of a Trump presidency. He emphasized that, despite his administration’s significant achievements, stepping down was a necessary step to ensure that Trump does not return to power, as it is believed this would pose a serious threat to the nation’s future.  Hopefully Jonas will prevail over Cassandra.

Will they pull back in Time?

As the U.S. approaches this critical election, it is clear that the stakes are higher than ever. The electorate is no longer the passive crowd that can be easily swayed by spectacle and rhetoric. Instead, Americans have developed a deeper understanding of their power and the responsibilities that come with it. Kamala Harris represents a return to integrity and public service, standing in stark contrast to Trump’s archaic and divisive approach. In this election, the true test will be whether the American people, with their newfound mimetic intelligence, can steer the nation towards a future grounded in accountability, justice, and collective strength.