Language is a Virus: Mike Pence edition
August 11, 2023·0 comments
Political opponents aren't disagreeing about facts. They're reading the same words and seeing completely different stories because specific language choices have rewired how each side processes reality. The machinery doing this rewiring is deliberate, lucrative, and invisible to those infected by it.
• The same words trigger opposite narratives across tribal lines. When one side uses conflict language, the other side doesn't just disagree with the interpretation. They unconsciously apply those same words to an entirely different story, seeing a threat where the speaker saw a solution.
• Political operatives engineer these linguistic infections intentionally. Consultants and political entrepreneurs carefully select words like "enable" and "empower" not to convey ideas but to nudge audiences into specific emotional and cognitive pathways that feel familiar and correct to their tribe.
• These words work because they bypass rational processing. Language choices trigger neural associations and dopamine responses before conscious thought kicks in. Therapy-speak activates one story. War-speak activates another. The audience never realizes they're being steered.
• The infections are spreading through architecture designed to amplify them. Social media algorithms, always-on notifications, and the constant stream of tribal affirmation create the perfect conditions for these linguistic viruses to replicate and strengthen their hold on how people think.
• This isn't a disagreement problem. It's an autonomy problem. What's being stolen isn't the right to act differently but the right to think differently. The most fundamental liberty—autonomy of mind—is being systematically undermined by weaponized language deployed at scale.
Subscribe Today to Read More
Unlock instant access to this and hundreds of other evergreen essays that explore the world of narrative through hard science and human wisdom.
- Make more informed decisions as an investor and citizen.
- See through the nudges of Big Politics and Big Media.
- Become a better consumer of news.
- Maintain your autonomy of mind in a swarm of narratives.
- Join a community of more than 100,000 truth-seekers.
Looking for Deeper Insights?
Unlock exclusive market intelligence, trade ideas, and member-only events tailored for investment professionals and active investors with Perscient Pro.
VISIT PRO
DISCLOSURES
This commentary is being provided to you as general information only and should not be taken as investment advice. The opinions expressed in these materials represent the personal views of the author(s). It is not investment research or a research recommendation, as it does not constitute substantive research or analysis. Any action that you take as a result of information contained in this document is ultimately your responsibility. Epsilon Theory will not accept liability for any loss or damage, including without limitation to any loss of profit, which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance on such information. Consult your investment advisor before making any investment decisions. It must be noted, that no one can accurately predict the future of the market with certainty or guarantee future investment performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Statements in this communication are forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and other views expressed herein are as of the date of this publication. Actual future results or occurrences may differ significantly from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements, and there is no guarantee that any predictions will come to pass. The views expressed herein are subject to change at any time, due to numerous market and other factors. Epsilon Theory disclaims any obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or views expressed herein. This information is neither an offer to sell nor a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities. This commentary has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. Epsilon Theory recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a financial advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor's individual circumstances and objectives.
