Putinism, like Trumpism, is based on a cynicism. It’s based on the idea that one should have no illusions, be wise to the ways of the world. People are, as Machiavelli put it, ungrateful and deceitful, timid of danger and avid for profit. Rivalry is inevitable. Everything is partisan. Anybody or any institution that claims to be objective and above the fray is a liar.
In this world, everything is public relations, and the more shameless the charade the better because people will believe whatever is in their interest to believe.
In times of anxiety and distrust, it’s much easier to sell cynicism than idealism.
| David Brooks, Vladimir Putin, the Most Influential Man in the World
Must not give in to it
tinfoilparachute 