This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit wisdomofcrowds.live Are ideas overrated? Shadi’s recent column (and controversial tweet) exploring the reasons behind Trump’s popularity launches a discussion about what exactly drives politics. Are politicians motivated by winning more than ideology? Do voters respond to strong personalities, rather than policies and promises? As expected, Damir makes a case for “materialism” over ideas. Shadi isn’t totally convinced. Required Reading: * Shadi, “The Peculiar Moderation of Donald Trump,” Washington Post, 1/25/2024 * Shadi’s tweet * Bruno Maçães’ tweet * David Ignatius, “The Midwest Tacks Hard Toward a Mideast ‘Moment of Truth’,” Washington Post, 2/1/2024 * Eduardo Porter, “Republicans’ Immigration Bill is Not Serious Legislation,” Washington Post, 2/2/2024 * Thomas Friedman, “A Biden Doctrine for the Middle East is Forming. And it’s Big,” New York Times, 1/31/2024 * Bruno Maçães on Wisdom of Crowds