Why Political Bullies Control the Conversation and How to Stand Up

Political bullies have become a pervasive force in today's society, often using their control over information and language to silence dissent and manipulate public opinion. However, many Americans are speaking out against this. Just turn on your TV and you'll see the proof: thousands of citizens are actively protesting and contacting their representatives. The media, unfortunately, often fails to report on these grassroots movements, unless they are large-scale or involve violence. Despite this, the tide of resistance continues. We are out there, and we are not giving up. Americans must vote in November to elect leaders who will stand up to political bullies.

How Education is Weaponized

The issue at the heart of this conflict is the weaponization of education. Political bullies wield knowledge like a gun in a hostage situation, while the vast majority of the population lacks the "intellectual weapons" to counter their arguments. When someone from an opposing political spectrum makes a claim, you may know deep down that they are incorrect, but without the right information, you struggle to refute their arguments. The problem is exacerbated by the use of complicated language and a barrage of statistics that are often drawn from unfamiliar or dubious sources.

The Power of Simplified Communication

People like Jordan Peterson, Ben Shapiro, and Steven Crowder are popular because they excel at explaining complex ideas in a clear and accessible way. These individuals do not rely on complex jargon or insults to make their points. Instead, they strive to remain respectful and uncondescending, ensuring that their arguments are understandable to the average person.

For instance, consider the example of Peterson engaging with Eric Dyson. Dyson is known for his "word salad" – a confusing jumble of words that can be difficult to decipher. Peterson, however, manages to break down Dyson's arguments in a way that the layman can follow. Dyson also resorts to constant questioning and challenging of specific words, positioning himself as intellectually superior. This ploy often makes others look unintelligent, reinforcing the bully's narrative. The average person, myself included, would struggle to counter Dyson's tactics because they are proficient in using these linguistic and rhetorical strategies to distract and derail.

The Need for Intellectual Empowerment

The challenge for most of us is that we lack the knowledge and skills to effectively respond to such tactics. It is not a matter of intrinsic intelligence, but of understanding how to counteract these manipulative behaviors. The key is to possess the 'intellectual weapons' – the ability to engage in a rational, well-reasoned discourse with the confidence to defend one's position. With the right tools, everyone can contribute to standing up against political bullies and ensuring that their arguments are heard.

Conclusion

Political bullies have a powerful grip on public discourse, but they can be challenged. We as Americans have shown our resolve through protests and calls to representatives. By increasing our own intellectual weapons, we can better defend our positions and ensure that our voices are heard. With the coming election, it is more important than ever to vote and support candidates who will take a stand against political bullies.