Why Conservatives Conflate Lack of Morals with Intelligence

In recent political discourse, it has become apparent that a significant portion of the conservative base often equates a lack of moral integrity with intelligence. This murky connection is particularly evident through the messaging of prominent conservative figures such as former President Donald Trump, who has painted a picture of intelligence as enabling the willingness to manipulate and deceive. This article delves into the psychology and implications of this conflation.

The Role of Moral Compass in Decision-Making

Firstly, it is essential to understand the role of a moral compass in shaping individual behavior. A moral compass guides individuals towards actions that are deemed right or wrong by societal norms and ethical standards. When an individual or a group fails to adhere to these moral standards, it can lead to actions that harm others or society at large. In this context, morality is not just a personal choice but a communal value that fosters trust, cooperation, and a stable society.

However, some conservative leaders argue that intelligence is a trait that allows individuals to circumvent or manipulate these norms for personal gain. This view suggests that smart individuals are inherently more adept at finding loopholes and justifying unethical behaviors, thus conflating intelligence with the absence of moral restraint.

The Ray of “Smart” Cheaters

One of the primary ways this narrative has been perpetuated is through the characterization of supposed intelligent individuals as cheaters. Former President Donald Trump was a master of this tactic, often implying that those who see through his rhetoric are not truly smart but rather naive or gullible. In this framing, intelligence becomes synonymous with the ability to manipulate the system, whether through deceit, misleading information, or other unethical means.

Trump’s speeches and public statements frequently highlighted the idea that intelligent individuals would be more likely to take advantage of others. His rhetoric cultivated a belief that smart people were not just intelligent but also morally compromised, capable of bending the rules to their advantage.

Psychological and Societal Implications

The conflation of intelligence with a lack of moral integrity has far-reaching psychological and societal implications. On a psychological level, it can lead to a skewed perception of intelligence, where individuals begin to value cunning and manipulation over genuine virtue and ethical behavior. This can erode trust in leadership and foster a culture of skepticism towards those perceived as intelligent.

On a societal level, this belief can contribute to the devaluation of moral integrity. When morality is viewed as an obstacle to success rather than a guiding principle, it can lead to a gradual shift in societal norms, where unethical behavior becomes normalized. This not only undermines the fabric of society but also creates an environment where cheating and deception are rewarded, fostering a self-defeating cycle of distrust and exploitation.

Countering the Narrative

To address this problematic conflation, it is crucial to promote a more nuanced understanding of intelligence. Intelligence, when coupled with ethical integrity, leads to positive societal outcomes. It is essential to emphasize the importance of moral values in conjunction with intelligence, emphasizing that true intelligence is not just about being clever but about using that cleverness constructively and ethically.

Public leaders, especially those in influential positions, should serve as role models for ethical behavior. They must demonstrate that intelligence and moral integrity go hand in hand and that the ability to see through deceptive arguments is a strength, not a weakness. By doing so, they can help rebuild trust and foster a culture that values both intelligence and ethical behavior.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the conflation of a lack of morals with intelligence is a powerful narrative that perpetuates skeptical and unethical behaviors. This conflation, particularly as promoted by leaders like Donald Trump, not only distorts the true nature of intelligence but also undermines societal trust and ethical norms. By promoting a more balanced and inclusive definition of intelligence, it is possible to challenge this narrative and create a more ethical and just society.