Kakistocracy

I’ve learned a new word—or a word new to me—which seems to sum up our current state of affairs.

During the first tRump administration I did not sit idly by. I emailed my state representatives, congress people and senators. I tried to stay informed and angry (how could I not!), but that was nearly 10 years ago and I’m older and more experienced in the fickleness of the American people and how bad things can get (remember a pandemic?). For the first few months I sat this one out.

But, now, I can’t help but notice: Kakistocracy.

It began with the nomination of RFK Jr. to Health & Human Services, FDA, in charge of the nation’s health=a vaccine skeptic. I have friends who do not vaccinate their children or selectively vaccinate. I forgo some shots available to me. My doctor and I discuss whether I need some tools offered by the medical community. For instance I didn’t get the shingles vaccine until I understood it is a one and done. And the good from it outweighs any presumed inconvenience. It seemed like a good risk. All this to say: RFK is not a doctor nor does he have any degree in public medicine. He is an influencer and has an opinion. Science is not part of the equation.

Same for the Department of Education. Linda McMahon, appointed by the president, is not nor ever has been a teacher. She was head of the WWE, world professional wrestling, an entertainment organization. So there we have it.

Kakistocracy is government by the worst, least qualified, or most unscrupulous people. The word was coined as early as the 17th century and derives from two Greek words, kákistos and krátos, together meaning 'government by the worst people'. Source: Wikipedia

I’m not sure how we got here or where things are going or how we’ll all end up, but as a word person, I know a kakistocracy when I see one. God help us.