We seem to be particularly susceptible to fatalism. Modern doctrines of science and history incline us philosophically in that direction. The experience of mass movements and mass effects seems to suggest individuals can do little to affect the course of events. When we do indulge our hopes and take seriously our wishes, they’re often frustrated by reality. And so we then tend to flip to the other extreme of assuming there’s nothing to be done. In a post-religious era, fatalism seems a knowing and sophisticated stance to take towards life.
And so we are now being treated to a wave of Donald Trump fatalism. Yes, he’s defied expectations in a pretty remarkable way. Yes, he’s won three of the first four GOP contests. Yes, he’s ahead in the polls in the states coming up. Yes, he has an easier path to victory than any other candidate.
