Question
In the context of the passage, how can fear be used to manipulate? Do you think that a
demagogue such as Joseph McCarthy could ever rise to power again? Why or why not? Cite
evidence from this text, your own experience, and other literature, art, or history in your
answer.
Answer
Fear can be used to manipulate by exploiting people's insecurities and anxieties, and by creating a sense of urgency or crisis that requires immediate action. A demagogue like Joseph McCarthy could potentially rise to power again, as history has shown that fear-mongering and scapegoating can be effective tactics for gaining support. However, the extent to which this is possible depends on various factors such as the political climate, media landscape, and the resilience of democratic institutions. For example, in the aftermath of McCarthyism, there were efforts to strengthen protections for civil liberties and to promote greater transparency and accountability in government. These measures have helped to prevent the rise of another demagogue like McCarthy, but they are not foolproof and require ongoing vigilance and engagement from citizens.