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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsChris Christie is a bully, and bullies are cowards
This is a point which is not emphasized enough. As a result, we get people defending his bullying as "masculine and muscular". There is nothing masculine about bullying. The very definition of a bully is someone who threatens and attacks those they know to be weaker, minimizing or eliminating any risk to themselves. They commit amoral acts victimizing others while ducking the consequences. Bullying is cowardice at its essence.
In fiction, the quintessential model of a bully is King Joffrey in Game of Thrones. He delights in cruel acts as long as his lapdog guards are there to prevent any retaliation against him, but when the tables are turned, he becomes a sniveling wuss.
That is Chris Christie. That is what the GOP defines as "masculine". That is the kind of behavior they idolize and worship.
They have become a party of amoral cowards.
malthaussen
(17,235 posts)Lots of bullies are cowards, this is true. It is not, however, invariant. All human behavior is subject to the tyranny of the bell-curve.
Our society defines strength as "the ability to force your will on another." And the quintessential quality of the stereotypical male is strength. And thereby hangs a host of problems.
-- Mal
ladjf
(17,320 posts)Bandit
(21,475 posts)Many if not most Officers are bullies of a sort, yet I would not call them cowards. Many enjoy picking on enlisted personel. It gives them a sense of satisfaction I guess to be able to make someone grovel at their feet. However when in battle they are as brave as any of the rest of the command.
ladjf
(17,320 posts)to an armed combat, involving many people and much equipment. But, I see your point.
However, what I had in mind was a simpler situation of mano a mano between two people. Had the officer not had the authority over the enlisted man and if they appeared to be more or less physically matched, I doubt that the officer would have been so aggressive toward the enlisted man.
Anyway, bullies are a pains in the ass and if at all possible, should be called on their actions. At least that's what I always did.
treestar
(82,383 posts)They would defer to those stronger, since that's their code.
lpbk2713
(42,774 posts)If he hadn't been caught he'd still be in the front of the pack.
But he was caught red handed and that is unforgivable.