What if the personas we see in public are merely performances? Richard Martin explores this provocative question in “The Mask and the Mirror,” examining the dissonance between Donald Trump’s public chaos and private charisma. Drawing parallels with historical figures like Stalin and Hitler, he reveals how charm can mask true intent, leading to a dangerous form of warfare: epistemic capture masquerading as empathy. This insightful analysis challenges readers to discern the symbolic order at play and recognize the strategic methods behind seemingly rational discourse. Discover how empathy without discernment can undermine the sovereignty of one’s own worldview.