If you have ever read the bio of Apple’s Steve Jobs, you would have come across the term Reality Distortion Field (RDF). It was coined to describe a particular talent of Steve that made him the successful innovator he was known for.
Steve has the ability to convince himself and others to believe almost anything with a mix of charm, charisma, bravado, hyperbole, and persistence. He can reframe a problem in a way to convince others to buy into his way of thinking and doing, to make the impossible look within reach. Steve is also able to appropriate other’s ideas as his own, sometimes proposing an idea to its originator after dismissing it the week before. This uncanny ability had helped Apple innovate successfully, to create a strong desire amongst its supporters to yearn for its products. Steve lives in an alternate reality where he believes in everything he talks about and can easily convince his followers that this was the gospel truth. It is so enticing that hardcore apple fans lap up every word he says.
Sounds familiar?
Trump seems to have the same gift too. If you look closely at how he projects himself. Supremely confident, quick on his feet and absolutely believing in everything he said. Little misinformations or unsubstantiated statements become the truth once he repeats it a few times. He doesn’t care if the rest of the world disagrees and oppose it with facts. He has already convinced himself that it is correct and directs his supporters to believe in him, that he alone will solve all problems.
Steve has proven that his RDF can help create the most profitable company in the world and drive people to do their best to develop technologically superior gadgets. Using this same charm in the political arena is a different kettle of fish. We move into a dangerous zone where reason and logic are thrown to the wind. The final consequences are too ugly to imagine if Teflon Don wins in November. One hopes that common sense will prevail.
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