Understanding Authoritarianism: Insights from “The Hour of the Predator”

Authoritarianism has drawn significant attention in recent years, with leaders like Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump shaping global politics. Insights from Giuliano da Empoli’s recent work, “The Hour of the Predator,” illuminate how these figures perceive power and authority. Through a lens that combines fiction and non-fiction, da Empoli presents a compelling narrative about the psychology behind authoritarian leaders and their methods of governance.

In “The Wizard of the Kremlin,” a novel narrated by one of Putin’s advisers, da Empoli explores the mindset of authoritarian figures. He argues that these leaders see themselves not merely as politicians but as performance artists who create alternative realities. They construct narratives that resonate with their supporters, often capitalizing on feelings of humiliation among their followers. This artistic vision, rather than specific policies, drives their appeal.

A Dualistic Worldview

Authoritarian leaders often frame their struggles in stark terms of good versus evil. For them, the world is divided between warriors and weaklings. The warriors are characterized by their aggressive, dominating nature, while bureaucrats—those who adhere to traditional political norms—are seen as ineffectual. This perspective is evident in the rhetoric of various global leaders, from Jair Bolsonaro in Brazil to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Da Empoli notes that leaders like Trump gain strength from their rejection of intellectualism. Their appeal lies in their ability to speak to the emotions of their base, often bypassing complex policy discussions for more visceral, powerful messaging. For example, Putin is described as eschewing numerical data in favor of discussions about honor and national identity, positioning himself as a protector of traditional values against perceived threats.

The Dynamics of Power

The concept of verticality plays a crucial role in the authoritarian approach to governance. While educated classes may strive for egalitarianism, authoritarian leaders emphasize hierarchy and control. They project strength, often emerging as figures of authority in times of crisis, such as economic instability or security threats. Da Empoli argues that people instinctively seek out strong leaders who can restore order amidst chaos, making authoritarian figures attractive during turbulent times.

Central to the authoritarian strategy is the use of unpredictability. Leaders like Putin and Trump engage in actions that keep their opponents off balance. By centralizing power and maintaining an aura of unpredictability, they create an environment of fear and loyalty among their supporters. This approach can be seen in Trump’s trade wars and Putin’s military aggressions, both designed to demonstrate strength and resolve.

Authoritarian figures also rely on scapegoating to channel public anger. By identifying specific groups, such as oligarchs or immigrants, as the source of societal issues, they rally their supporters against common enemies. This tactic not only consolidates their power but also distracts from systemic problems.

The Role of Technology and Chaos

In today’s digital age, the landscape of power dynamics has shifted dramatically. Da Empoli’s insights suggest that online realms often resemble anarchy, where misinformation and chaos thrive. Authoritarian leaders exploit this chaos, leveraging social media and other platforms to amplify their messages and maintain control. The environment is rife with disinformation campaigns, cyberattacks, and extremist rhetoric, all contributing to a sense of instability.

Da Empoli also points to a growing perception that modern elites lack depth of character, focusing instead on pragmatic solutions to societal problems. In contrast, authoritarian leaders position themselves as champions of human experience, offering visions of greatness that resonate with their followers. They evoke sentiments of camaraderie and strength, promising a return to a glorified past or a more robust future.

In closing, the exploration of authoritarianism through the lens of da Empoli’s works reveals a complex interplay of psychology, power, and societal dynamics. While the term “wolves” may be used pejoratively to describe these leaders, they embrace the moniker, believing their aggressive tactics are necessary to protect their nations from perceived threats. The ongoing global rise of authoritarianism suggests that as long as there are challenges to face, the demand for such leaders may only continue to grow.