Whatever Happened to Justice Ch 27

Political Power and Abuse

• Political power is inherently corrupting, affecting both individuals and large groups.
• Madison and Hamilton argued that majority rule can lead to oppression if not checked.
• History provides various examples of majorities abusing power (French Reign of Terror, Salem witch trials, Nazi Germany, Inquisition, slavery, Mao's Cultural Revolution).
• Abigail Adams warned of power's grasping nature.

Human Psychology and Power

• Group intelligence diminishes with larger groups.
• The thrill of power, domination, and conquest (like a "biochemical high") drives political behavior.
• This dynamic applies to mobs and individuals seeking power, echoing a "rush" similar to primitive hunting.

Solutions and Prevention

• Limiting government size and power is crucial to prevent abuses.
• Implementing private systems for essential goods and services avoids reliance on government force.
• The 1787 Constitutional Convention and 1790 Bill of Rights aimed to establish a weak and limited government.

Analogy to Addiction

• Political power, like alcohol or drugs, creates predictable behavioral patterns.
• Political behavior of individuals is predictable, similar to how addiction affects behavior.
• Examples include anti-tax conservatives advocating higher taxes, or anti-war liberals initiating wars.
• Deceitfulness is a notable characteristic shared by various types of addicts.

The Nature of Power Seekers

• The primary goal of those seeking power isn't necessarily monetary gain; rather, it's about maintaining, and increasing power, and using it to exert dominion.
• The "playing" part of political power is emphasized, arguing that the process of using power may be enjoyed more than a specific outcome.
• Historical examples like the 1983 Lebanon war are cited as illustrations of this pursuit of power over tangible results.
• Political leaders often act as if "without regard for the outcome" or success of the group, prioritizing their individual desire for control.

Conclusion

• Politicians are not inherently malicious actors but are driven by the intoxicating effect of power, similar to those addicted to substances.
• It's important to recognize the inherent danger of political power, as it has historically led to harmful outcomes.
• Understanding the motivations of those in power is crucial to predicting their actions.
• Conspiracies are symptoms, not causes, of the corrupting influence of power.