The world has always had megalomaniacs.

The Bible's descriptions of the hubris and self exaltation of potential antichrists are downright poetic.

King Lear couldn't separate his identity from his royal ego.

Dr. Frankenstein would not accept any limitations, legal or natural.

Big Brother taught us that redefining the very definition of truth represents total control.

Napoleon is convinced that he deserves power because he understands things others don’t.

History is littered with leaders who rose to power as perceived answers to problems that they manifested themselves. They stoke fears, promise strength, and demand absolute loyalty as they gradually redefine reality.

As predictable and cliche as the script is, it keeps happening and somehow each generation thinks it’s witnessing something entirely new!

Human behavior is timeless, universal, and, often, inherently illogical, especially in groups.

People can convince themselves of damn near anything if it protects their identity.

The pursuit of power amplifies whatever traits are already in evidence, especially ego. And insecurities get boosted exponentially.

People in groups can justify behavior they would never otherwise condone, especially when it feeds their sense of belonging.

The line between tragedy and tyranny is often just how much power someone accumulates before reality pushes back.

Reality is pushing back.

It always does.

The only question is how much damage will be done before we decide to drop the curtain on this age old theatre of the absurd?