Giuliano da Empoli on 'Predator' Leaders and the Exercise of Real Power

The Nature of 'Real Power'

• ⚡ Real power is characterized by visible and rash actions, contrasting with the calculated decisions of bureaucrats or technocrats.
• 💡 An act that is meditated upon for a long time is not considered an act of power; true power lies in surprising, decisive moves.
• 🏛️ This concept is exemplified by historical figures and modern leaders who prioritize raw force and rule-breaking.

Identifying 'Predators'

• 🐺 The term 'predators' refers to political figures who believe in the exercise of raw force and often aim to disrupt or eliminate the existing political class.
• 🎯 Examples include leaders like Trump, Bolsonaro, and Meloni, though Meloni is seen as a hybrid due to her traditional political background.
• 🌍 This style of leadership has roots in what could be termed 'Asian democracy' or authoritarian systems, promising miraculous solutions to blocked political systems where people feel nothing changes.

The Predator's Promise and Appeal

• 🚀 Predators promise to break rules and laws to achieve concrete results, addressing issues like illegal immigration, criminality, or inflation.
• ⚖️ They are often contrasted with the 'party of lawyers' or old elites who emphasize adherence to rules, but predators gain appeal by offering direct solutions.
• 💥 This approach is seen as a reaction against failed old elites and the perceived limitations of liberal democracy, particularly after the 'end of history' concept.

Convergence with Tech Oligarchs

• 💻 Political predators find common ground with tech predators who thrive in digital spheres where aggression, lies, and extremism are rewarded with engagement.
• 🤝 This convergence is driven by a shared interest in wiping out the existing system, including the political class, legacy media, and established procedures and laws.
• 📜 Both groups often advocate for **