Trump's Approach Pose a Danger to Civilization.
The national and international policies – from the challenge to the democratic process in the past to recent moves and warnings – erode not only national and global jurisprudence. However, the issue goes deeper.
They threaten the fundamental meaning of civilization itself.
The guiding principle of a functioning society is to forestall the stronger from harming and taking advantage of the less powerful. Without this, we could find ourselves locked in a brutish war where only the fittest could survive.
This principle is embedded of the nation's founding texts. It’s also the heart of the modern framework of international relations championed by the US, emphasizing multilateralism, democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law.
But, it is a delicate principle, easily violated by those who choose to misuse their power. Preserving it demands that the powerful have enough integrity to avoid seeking temporary advantages, and that the public hold them accountable should they falter.
Unchecked strength is not right. It results in uncertainty, disruption, and war.
Whenever people or corporations or countries that are richer and more powerful prey upon those that are weaker, the framework of our shared norms unravels. If such aggression are left unchecked, the system fails. If not stopped, the world can descend into chaos and war. We have seen this pattern previously.
Our current reality is a society and world marked by extreme inequality. Influence and wealth are increasingly centralized than in modern history. This encourages the privileged to leverage their position against the disadvantaged because they feel untouchable.
The resources of a small group of ultra-wealthy individuals is almost beyond comprehension. The influence of global industrial giants covers numerous countries. Advanced technology is could consolidate resources and influence further. The offensive capability of the major powers is without parallel in recorded history.
Empowered by a compliant faction and a pliant high court, the highest office has been turned into the most powerful and unaccountable instrument of government in history.
Put it all together and you grasp the threat.
A clear connection links earlier transgressions to ongoing provocations. Each were based on the arrogance of absolute power.
One observes parallel dynamics in the actions of other powers: in territorial invasions, in strategic threats, and in the rampant monopolization by industrial titans.
But, unfettered might does not establish right. It makes for instability, upheaval, and armed conflict.
The lessons of the past reveal that laws and norms to constrain the influential also shield them. Without such constraints, their relentless pursuit for greater influence and riches in time cause their collapse – along with their corporations, nations, or empires. And risk global conflict.
Such disregard for rules will cast a long shadow over international stability – and the very idea of civilization – for a long time.
