The moral philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre sheds light on a pressing question: how can half of America view Donald Trump positively despite his egregious behavior? A decade-long inquiry has left the author puzzled. What’s behind this widespread moral numbness?
A narrative rooted in MacIntyre’s philosophy offers insight into America’s moral decay. The story begins with ancient Athens, where life purpose was not an individual choice but a role within family, tribe, city, and nation. People inherited duties, responsibilities, and obligations from their respective entities. This network of social roles served as the foundation for moral judgment.
As MacIntyre’s philosophy emphasizes, Western culture has shifted towards individualism, eroding this social fabric. In today’s society, personal identity is paramount, and life’s purpose is often seen as a choice rather than an inherited role. This shift has left many Americans unable to make basic moral judgments, making Trump’s behavior seem acceptable to some.
MacIntyre’s legacy serves as a reminder that our moral compass is built upon a foundation of shared values and social norms. The erosion of these norms has contributed to the current state of moral numbness in America.
Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/07/trump-administration-supporters-good/683441