Unavoidable Patterns in Politics: History Repeating Itself

The study of politics reveals a myriad of patterns that seem to repeat themselves time and time again. These recurring dynamics are not limited to specific ideologies or eras but are deeply rooted in human nature and the structures of governance. As noted by Alexander Finnegans, tax cuts are among the most common themes, especially those aimed at the wealthy, often linked to the concept of trickle-down economics.

Machiavellian Republicanism and Propaganda

One of the most insidious patterns is the use of Machiavellian tactics by political leaders. This involves saying one thing, doing another, and keeping the masses in the dark. A notable example is from the works of the Russian-born atheist American philosopher Ayn Rand. In her book Atlas Shrugged, large corporate interests are portrayed as undermining and infiltrating government institutions through lobbying and appointments to key government positions. The central theme is appealing to both the 'smart' and 'dumb' masses, ultimately serving corporate interests.

Rand's vision is it would be a country “by the people, for the people, but not of the people” where the real beneficiaries are large corporations. This is achieved by getting enough support but undermining the public before they can do so, ensuring that any downsides are minimized.

Patterns in Economic Policy

Another recurring pattern in politics is the implementation of tax cuts, primarily benefiting the wealthy, under the guise of trickle-down economics. This idea, first proposed by Alexander Hamilton, suggests that if the government reduces taxes for the rich, the resulting investment will eventually benefit the broader economy. This concept has been a cornerstone of modern Republican Party policies, with famous examples including the tax cuts under Reagan and the Trump administrations.

Democrats, on the other hand, argue that tax cuts aimed at the working class can fuel the economy more effectively. According to this view, when the working class gains more money, they will spend it immediately, stimulating demand and driving economic growth. However, in practice, this model often fails, as the promised trickle-down benefits do not materialize.

Taking the example of the recent tax cut, it closely mirrors the tax reforms from the 1980s under Ronald Reagan. While the economy did grow slightly faster in the early years, the promised increase in tax revenues remained elusive. Similar to the Reagan and Bush eras, the debt increased as tax revenues failed to meet projections.

Other Repeating Cycles in Politics

Besides economic patterns, there are other recurring dynamics in politics. Alexander Finnegans mentioned isolationism, which, while returnable, has a much longer cycle. Both political parties often find themselves oscillating between periods of isolationism and internationalism. However, the specific focus of each period varies, with each party claiming credit or blame when the economic and geopolitical landscape changes.

For instance, during the early years of the Trump administration, there was a strong emphasis on America First and isolationism, with skepticism towards international organizations and agreements. This led to a period of domestic preoccupation and disregard for global leadership roles.

Conclusion

While the patterns in politics may seem cyclical and predictable, the intricacies of human behavior and institutional structures make each iteration unique. Understanding these patterns can help us navigate the complexities of governance and anticipate the potential outcomes of current and upcoming policies.

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