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Trump's madman tactics and the psychology of bluffing

It was former US President Richard Nixon who came up with the "Madman Theory" as a way to coerce foreign adversaries. But Trump even uses it with allies. Here's how it works.
The article from MSN discusses Donald Trump's use of "madman theory" in his political strategy, a tactic where he portrays himself as unpredictable and potentially irrational to gain leverage in negotiations and political confrontations. This approach, reminiscent of Richard Nixon's strategy during the Cold War, involves Trump making extreme statements or threats to intimidate opponents, thereby forcing them into concessions or altering their behavior out of fear of his unpredictability. The piece explores how this psychological warfare not only affects his political adversaries but also influences public perception and media coverage, often leading to a cycle of controversy and attention. It delves into the psychological underpinnings of bluffing, suggesting that while this can be effective in creating uncertainty, it also risks credibility and can lead to miscalculations if opponents call his bluff. The article also touches on the broader implications of such tactics on democracy, questioning the sustainability and ethical considerations of employing such strategies in governance.

Read the Full DW Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-xl/politics/government/trump-s-madman-tactics-and-the-psychology-of-bluffing/ar-AA1AQEnd ]