Make a political hero of Zack Polanski if you want. Just don’t forget to engage your brain | Marina Hyde
In a recent article by Marina Hyde for The Guardian, the political landscape is scrutinized through the lens of the Green Party leader’s rising popularity, juxtaposed against the dangers of uncritical adulation across the political spectrum. Hyde draws parallels to Kelly Osbourne’s infamous comments on “The View,” where she attempted to defend Donald Trump’s derogatory remarks about Mexican immigrants, only to find herself embroiled in controversy. This incident illustrates the pitfalls of careless rhetoric and the necessity for accountability in public discourse—a theme that resonates deeply within contemporary politics.
Hyde argues that while the Green Party leader may be enjoying a surge in support, this phenomenon can be misleading. The article highlights that uncritical praise can create an illusion of competence and effectiveness, potentially leading to disillusionment when reality fails to meet expectations. Just as Osbourne’s flippant remarks revealed underlying biases, the adoration of political figures without critical examination can mask flaws and hinder meaningful progress. Hyde emphasizes that genuine political engagement requires a discerning eye, urging voters to look beyond surface-level appeal and consider the broader implications of their support.
The piece serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of critical thinking in politics, reminding readers that blind loyalty can lead to stagnation and disappointment. By reflecting on past incidents like Osbourne’s, Hyde encourages a more nuanced approach to political discourse, advocating for a culture that values accountability and thoughtful engagement over mere adulation. In a time when political polarization is rampant, this message is particularly timely, urging voters to remain vigilant and informed as they navigate the complexities of the political landscape.
The Green party leader is riding high in the polls. But across the political spectrum, uncritical adulation leads nowhere fast
Shortly after Donald Trump launched his first White House run in 2015, television’s Kelly Osbourne made one of her regular appearances on The View, which is basically the American version of Loose Women but doesn’t feel the need to have a cringey title. Trump had made some
extremely nasty comments
about Mexican immigrants, and Kelly had a rhetorical question for the other ladies gathered round the wood-effect dining table that morning. “You kick every Latino out of this country,”
she sassed
, “then WHO is going to be cleaning your toilet, Donald Trump?”
Oooooof. The reaction from fellow panellist Rosie Perez was instantaneously negative, to the point that even Kelly realised in the moment that this needed clean-up. Apparently there weren’t any willing rubber-gloved Latinos on hand, so madam was going to have to do it herself. “I didn’t mean it like that,” Osbourne shot back. “Come on! You know I would never mean it like that! I’m not part of this argument.” A
media firestorm
nonetheless ensued, though Kelly declined to apologise for even the appearance of racism, I think on the basis that people like her simply are not capable of subconsciously holding unpleasant views that they accidentally reveal while making important TV appearances.
Marina Hyde is a Guardian columnist
Continue reading…
