A theory proposed by Italian historian Carlo Cipolla 50 years ago has unexpectedly come to life in modern America, as many observers argue that it has been brought into focus by President Donald Trump. Cipolla claimed that “stupid people,” when in large numbers, pose a substantial threat to societal stability.

In an insightful piece for The New Republic, journalist Ross Rosenfield reflects on this theory, noting that Trump exemplifies the troubling dynamics cited by Cipolla. The historian suggested in his 1976 work, “The Basic Laws of Human Stupidity,” that the sheer influence of the foolish could surpass even organized crime or military power.

The current political landscape supports Cipolla’s assertion. Rosenfield points to the current administration’s mishandling of health crises, ongoing military entanglements, and a political environment wrought with misinformation as a testament to the perils posed by those who hold power without competence.

In his treatise, Cipolla categorized humans into four distinct groups: the intelligent, whose actions benefit both themselves and others; the bandits, who exploit others for personal gain; the helpless, who harm themselves while inadvertently helping others; and the stupid, whose actions benefit neither themselves nor those around them.

Rosenfield highlights a glaring issue: when stupidity finds its way into positions of power, it wields dangerous tools created by the intelligent, such as military forces and economic systems. “The stupid will have at their disposal means of destruction created by the intelligent,” he notes, emphasizing the risk this poses to institutional integrity.

Cipolla warned that society could quickly descend into chaos if intelligent individuals fail to manage the reckless actions of the foolish. The historian’s stark view is that unabated stupidity can lead to a rapid deterioration of societal functions.

The evidence of this burgeoning crisis is present in the political discourse surrounding events such as the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. A recent poll indicated that a mere 20 percent of Republicans acknowledged it as a violent insurrection, while an overwhelming 71 percent continue to deny the legitimacy of Biden’s election.

Critics claim that the Trump administration mirrors the very conditions that Cipolla warned against. The administration’s feeble responses to pressing public health issues—like the resurgence of diseases such as measles and polio—underscore a worrying trend of negligence.

The ongoing geopolitical tensions with Iran also provide a stark example of what some view as one of the “dumbest wars in history.” Such decisions, many argue, reflect a disconnect between policy and pragmatic understanding.

Rosenfield points out a critical developmental aspect of the “stupid people” theory: the surprising frequency with which intelligent individuals exhibit irrationalities themselves. This unexpected folly makes it all the more difficult to predict which leaders will act judiciously in crises.

As the U.S. grapples with these uncertainties, the fear persists that society might be on a perilous decline. The ramifications of ignoring Cipolla’s warnings could become more pronounced if the electorate fails to hold leaders accountable.

Rosenfield concludes that it may be too soon to definitively gauge the long-term effects of these trends on American society. However, the urgency of the situation is amplified by the historical parallels people see between today and the sociopolitical turbulence of Cipolla’s era.

This reflection raises crucial questions about governance, intelligence, and the collective responsibility of society to discern effective leadership from that shaped by ignorance.

The dialogue surrounding the intersection of stupidity and power continues to resonate, especially as voters approach the upcoming election. The stakes appear high, and the potential for both enlightenment and folly remains present.

As America debates its political future, one thing remains clear: the lessons from Cipolla’s work are just as relevant today as they were half a century ago. The responsibility to ensure intelligent governance falls on the shoulders of the electorate.

In a moment when wisdom is urgently needed, one can only hope that the path forward is guided by understanding rather than ignorance.