Never in my lifetime has there been a weaker association between what is popular and what is right.

I have no data to back that up, but it's how I feel. People’s brains have stopped working, and often stopped even trying. Mood response is all that's left.

I can't prove what's caused it. It feels like Trump and the internet were both necessary conditions. Maybe 2020 too, with COVID and BLM in an election year. In any case, the combination revved us up and burnt us out. We're too tired. It all feels too futile. So why think too hard?

Why bother researching or testing your assumptions? There's no return on investment for being right. People will not be persuaded. The world will not improve. You'll just notice more differences between the way things are and the way they should be, and get more depressed for the sake of it.

So sure, let's cheer assassinations now. Boo insurance companies, amirite? Anyone who doesn't like it is just out of touch with Americans’ frustration.

In fact, let’s pardon the kid who shot him, while Biden's in such a pardoning mood. And of course he should’ve pardoned Hunter. Boo Republicans, amirite? Keep your stuffy principles to yourself.

Also, tell those nerdy economists to shut the fuck up with all their stats: we'll just make trade and immigration policy by what the local plumber thinks will make America great again. Don't be so elitist, ya fancypants college boy.

Haven't you heard? Populism is in now. It's our “tentpole.” Can’t win without it - and besides, it's kinda fun! Whole lot easier, that's for sure. Nuance, expertise, thinking through long term consequences - who’s got time for that crap?

Anyway, rant over. Follow me if you're annoyed too. I won't always be right, but I promise I won't stop trying.