Donald Trump: Untrainable Decency

The recent comments about Donald Trump, painted as an analogy of dogs trained to walk on their hind legs, add a layer of scrutiny to the question of whether a leader can be decent under all circumstances. Critics argue that Trump's indecency flows naturally from him, and that there is little hope for him to present himself as a model of behavioral etiquette. The analogy of trained dogs also highlights the starkness of his behavior, which often seems contradictory and bizarre in situations that require a high degree of decorum.

Struggle for Decency

The notion that Donald Trump struggles to behave decently, especially when he is forced to be on his best behavior, is not a new one. When he makes decent statements, people often feel as though they are witnessing bizarre and unnatural behavior—much like how dogs trained to walk on their hind legs might make one feel. The struggle for decency appears as a genuine challenge for him, often resulting in offensive, insulting, or sarcastic remarks, or accusations of others being "horrible people" when confronted with logical arguments.

The Untrainable Dog

A more controversial viewpoint suggests that Donald Trump, much like an untrained dog, cannot be taught to behave decently. The assertion that he is untrainable and that he managed to be reelected to a second term prompts questions about the electorate and their choices. This analogy invites a deeper examination of the democratic process and the qualities we expect from our leaders.

The View from Critics

Critics further argue that Trump has consistently displayed a litany of unacceptable behaviors, including hatred, venom, snark, bullying, bigotry/racism, and stupidity. When he seems to transition towards more positive behaviors, it is often short-lived and met with a swift return to his usual, offensive rhetoric. This pattern suggests a consistent pattern of behavior that resists modification or discipline, much like the untrained dog that cannot be taught to walk on two legs.

Democratic Failures

The idea that sometimes bad guys get elected, as we have seen in many countries, invites a discussion about the state of democracy and the responsibility of citizens. While some might argue that it is futile to resist such candidates, it is also important to acknowledge the importance of active citizenship and the need for voices to rise up and challenge questionable behaviors. The Democratic Party's stance on matters of identity and gender highlights another contentious issue, where the equity and respect for individuals are paramount.

The Electorate’s Choice

The electorate's choice to reelect Trump, despite his obvious inconsistencies and offensive behaviors, prompts several critical questions. This choice challenges the values of decent leadership and social unity. How do we reconcile our elected leaders' actions with the principles of fairness, respect, and ethical behavior that we ourselves adhere to? Thomas Jefferson's hypothetical reaction to such a situation serves as a poignant reminder of the continuous struggle for progress and equality.

Conclusion

The analogy of dogs trained to walk on their hind legs not only highlights the peculiar behaviors of Donald Trump but also raises fundamental questions about leadership, behavior, and the responsibility of the electorate. The debate surrounding Trump's indecency and the challenges of shaping his behavior through discipline highlight the complexities of democratic values and the need for continuous vigilance in ensuring ethical and decent leadership.

Keywords: Donald Trump, decency, untrainable, electorate, reinstatement