[InsideOutSanta]

This is devastating enough on its own. But what makes it even more troubling is that the United States has a president who demands such transparently false praise. What's going on in this man's head? Does he not understand that these people are lying to him because they are afraid of what he will do to their companies? Or does he know, and that is the point?

What in the world is wrong with this man?

[karmakurtisaani]

This is what kissing the ring looks like. It's a loyalty test.

In Soviet Union it was a sign of loyalty not to question obviously false statistics and news. In Joe Rogan's circles is laughing at his shit jokes and praising his comic abilities in his podcast.

[geodel]

I think people are laughing at atrocious jokes forever just to be on right side of political climate at that time.

[wand3r]

The power is real. The fear is real. The praise is the only fake thing.

[shadowgovt]

In general, when there are no consequences for people's actions they don't change those actions.

[dmonitor]

It's about enforcing a power dynamic. Groveling and empty praise is about showing loyalty and control. Trump thinks enforcing this level of control over others is what success looks like.