The Perverse Thrill of Chaotic Times

For all the rational appeal of peace and stability, Americans have a powerful attraction to calamity and disruption. …

Now, as Donald J. Trump helms arguably the most turbulent presidency since Richard M. Nixon’s, the nation is entering an era of volatility unseen for decades (post-9/11 excepted). And for some people (even the president’s opponents), the climate of crisis inspires a perverse thrill. …

“We’ve come to equate drama and crisis with history,” said Kevin Rozario, an associate professor of American studies at Smith College. “We know we’re in the presence of history when things are blowing up. There’s an intensification of emotions when you’re living in historical times, as if it’s more real.” CONT.

Teddy Wayne, New York Times

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