Yes they would, and they do turn into authoritarians every chance they get. Why, though? Is it merely for short term gain? The best grifters (senators, judges, media stars) could have an equal if not superior level of power and influence if they embraced and espoused a more self-reliant, less judgmental, individual liberty outlook where they work for the good of the whole community and become champions for their voters/viewers/neighbors/friends. Why do they always choose the dark path of totalitarianism?
Because they don't have any talent, except as criminals, and if they embraced the outlook you wish for they would not be in power because someone more competent would be.
> would all these people we know and live with every day really turn into brutal totalitarians given the chance?
YES. YES. YES.
Yes they would, and they do turn into authoritarians every chance they get. Why, though? Is it merely for short term gain? The best grifters (senators, judges, media stars) could have an equal if not superior level of power and influence if they embraced and espoused a more self-reliant, less judgmental, individual liberty outlook where they work for the good of the whole community and become champions for their voters/viewers/neighbors/friends. Why do they always choose the dark path of totalitarianism?
Somewhere right now a decision is being made.
Because they don't have any talent, except as criminals, and if they embraced the outlook you wish for they would not be in power because someone more competent would be.
Nail on the head.