Populism Shouldn’t Be So Popular
By Rayen Zhou ’29
Opinion columnist Rayen Zhou explores the rising popularity of populism and the dangers of widespread doomerism. He draws insight from the transcendentalist philosophy of Henry David Thoreau as a possible antidote to the current cultural malaise.
It’s difficult to pinpoint when it began, but for quite some time, we’ve all been subjects of a relentless bombardment — not of weapons, but of slogans, breaking news, and endless streams of updates. In a hyperconnected world filled with crises to lament, triumphs to celebrate, and even trivial irritations to react to, it’s no wonder many young Americans have gravitated toward a sense of despair.
“This is a Fox News alert!”
Amid constant noise and pressure, some people withdraw and adopt the persona of the doomer — one who believes nothing can be done. It often feels as if personal struggles already demand too much energy to care about distant issues. The sense of helplessness breeds apathy and detachment.
Yet history shows that resignation is perilous. When large groups of people give up on the possibility of meaningful action, pessimism mutates into populism, which in turn can give rise to authoritarianism or violence. This progression is neither new nor unique to our time, but it remains deeply concerning.
Zhou suggests that reflection, simplicity, and mindful disengagement — values championed by Thoreau — may offer a way out of the spiral of despair and extremism. By returning to individual thought and personal responsibility, society might rediscover a healthier balance between awareness and action.
Author’s Summary
Rayen Zhou examines how widespread fatalism feeds populism and argues for adopting Thoreau’s reflective mindset as a path toward civic renewal and personal responsibility.