Why the Bush admin uses a "Campaign of fear"

http://www.disinfo.com/site/displayarticle6643.html

Fatal Attraction: A Relationship Between Fear Of Death And Political Preferences
posted by Lord_Fanny
on Oct 28, 2004 - 12:40 AM

'For their current research, the scientists asked students to think about their own death or a control topic and then read campaign statements of three hypothetical political candidates, each with a different leadership style: "charismatic" (i.e. those emphasizing greatness of the nation and a heroic victory over evil, as described above), task-oriented or relationship-oriented. Following a reminder of death, there was almost an 800 percent increase in votes for the charismatic leader, but no increase for the two other candidates.

'"At a theoretical level," the authors wrote, "this study adds to the large body of empirical evidence attesting to the pervasive influence of reminders of death on a wide range of human activities. These findings fit particularly well with prior studies showing how mortality salience leads people toward individuals, groups, and actions that can help enhance their self-esteem. People want to identify with special, great things, and charismatic leaders typically offer the promise of just that."' (American Psychological Society news release and report).

Look at the man stand, watch him move, listen to him talk. There is not one ounce of charisma in that man.

I just think it is the kool-aid they serve

Many of his supporters find him charismatic. (I don't see it, but they do.) He is described as "likable (ugh!).

Right after the 2000 election, I remember one reporter asking why so many people would vote for someone like him (an obviously way underqualified person). Another explained that many people would like to vote for a "fishin' buddy" (somebody they're comfortable with), rather than someone they don't like so much, but is obviously way more qualified (Gore, Adlai Stevenson, etc.)

Many people don't like "intellectuals" in this country (sigh). This is why Kerry has to work so hard at being "likeable". Clinton was a rare exception. He's very smart, but seems very approachable.

This anti-intellectualism isn't the case in many other countries (like old Europe).