Cults require a charismatic leader...

[Didereaux]

Just pointing out the fact that all cults and extremist organizations are based around a charismatic leader. I believe that it is always wise to keep that at the forefront.

It is no coincidence that evangelicals are careful to put into separate categories the charismatic, and the non-charismatic.

[cali]

1. Look, inspirational leaders can cut either way, no doubt about it.

And there's certainly plenty of evidence that a number of people find Obama inspirational. But calling his support a cult is simply ignorant or disingenuous. JFK was charismatic. So was RFK and MLK. It's how that charisma is used. Not that someone has it. That's so basic that I'm surprised it even has to be discussed.

[H2O Man]

19. Valid point.

I think the OP could actually be of value, if the person had opted to take a simple step that illustrates the two very different styles of charismatic leaders. In order to do this, one needs to be familiar with what is known as "locus of control," which defines the difference between those who support a leader, as opposed to those who follow a leader.

"Locus of control" means if a person believes, in general, that they have control over their life. Obviously, not total control, but rather the ability to make decisions and take actions that help determine the quality of their life.

An "externnal locus of control" describes those who view themselves as victims of circumstance, and who take no responsibility for making decisions and taking actions to improve their lives. They tend to look for charismatic leaders to "follow."

An "internal locus of control" describes those who are eager to make decisions and take actions to improve their lives. They often will support a charismatic leader who calls upon citizens in the sense that JFK did, with his "ask not" message.

The OP is of value if it moves the discussion in an honest and informative direction. It lacks value if it is yet another appeal to ignorance. Knowledge is power, ignorance is sickness. We can make decisions and take actions to improve our lives and this country.

[LandOLincoln]

2. Thank you for that. Let me be the first to give you some

props--apres le deluge as it were.

[neutron]

5. Amen Don't look too close Just feel good

[depakid]

3. It takes more than that

The key characteristic is non-questioning followers, who've given up critical thinking -and accept and defend things that are said and done, whether or not they're at odds with what they previously believed.

[boston bean]

4. Tru dat, it happens with all O supporters. you can

give em facts spoon fed and they will call you a liar. That is what it has resorted to.

sort of like the brainwashed person confronted with reality who's only answer is you are bad and lying to me.

[cali]

6. What bitter nonsense you prattle

I'm fully aware that Obama is a flawed candidate- as is Clinton. And everything you said can be equally applied to SOME Clinton supporters. Your problem is that you can't put down that broad and stupid brush you wield.

[boston bean]

7. thank you for proving my point. My words are nonsense, because I am not a true believer.

[baldguy]

10. They were really a cute couple back in the day, huh?

[boston bean]

15. yes they were, and still are today! nt

[cali]

11. no, dear.

Your words are bitter nonsense because you've claimed that all Obama supporters are brainwashed cultists. That's the very definition of bitter and ugly- smearing everyone who disagree with YOU. It's quite pathetic. I'd never do that re Hillary supporters

Get help.

[boston bean]

13. pathetic, codswallop, disgusting, ugly, bitter, atleast two of those words are in every post u make

You are what you preach.

[jakem]

8. if Clinton was more charismatic, would we be having this conversation?

[BeyondGeography]

9. Not to mention kool-aid

(Piss off.)

[Adelante]

12. I'm confused - what's meme for today?

Is it "cults" or "flip-flops"? :crazy:

[jakem]

16. damn flip flop cults.

[boston bean]

18. Both, the cultists are blinded, they cannot intelligently discuss O's flip flops.

He is the Almighty Obama, thou who dare to question, will reap hurled insults that will make your head spin.

Commandment #1

Thou shalt not question the Almighty Obama.

[cgrindley]

14. Stupid posts require an idiot to write them

Just pointing out the fact that all stupid posts and idiotic things written on the internets are based around utter asshats. I believe that it is always wise to keep that at the forefront.

It is no coincidence that asshats are careful to post both stupid and insane bullshit.

[Maribelle]

17. People that purchase snake oil require a charismatic leader too.

It's truly hard for me to believe that in 2008 people are so willing to cast such an important vote, and too easily deceived by someone that can only discuss empty platitudes.

[maddiejoan]

20. Yes

Yes. They. Can.