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Useful idiot is a political term that describes the manipulation of the masses for political gains that only benefit a small elite. This has several variations:Divide & ConquerEncouraging the masses to focus on differences between people so that they will not pursue their common interests.
Distract & ConquerEncouraging big controversies around relatively small issues so that the masses are distracted from larger problems that are more likely to impact their lives.Bread & CircusesEncouraging the masses to focus on entertainment over politics. This term implies that the masses will be satisfied with basic sustenance as long as they are entertained. Spend & ConquerEncouraging the opposition to spend large amounts of resources to solve minor problems such that resources will not be available for larger problems.
Encouraging the masses to spread fear to encourage people to cling to an elite for "protection."NotesThe term useful idiot is often attributed to Vladimir Lenin but this seems unlikely as it doesn't appear in his written works.|
| Type | | | Definition (1) | The manipulation of the masses for political gains that only benefit a small elite. | | Definition (2) | An individual who takes political actions that harm their own self-interests and values. | | Related Concepts | |
Communication
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