The Root of Fear: Why Bernie Sanders Continues to Stir Controversy

Seems that people are apparently terrified by a politician like Bernie Sanders simply wanting to ensure that health care is provided to all who need it. However, this fear is far more complex than a simple response towards a candidate's intentions. We can break down the reactions into three broad categories to understand this phenomenon better.

Three Reactions to Bernie Sanders

One significant group includes older Americans, some of whom are younger supporters who still remember the Red Scare, the Cold War, the Cuban Missile Crisis and the perceived threat of the Soviet Union. Many of these individuals unintentionally, or worse, intentionally, associate what Bernie Sanders advocates for with socialist or communist governments. This perception continues to influence their views despite the fact that many other first-world capitalist countries already have social programs resembling those proposed by Bernie.

A younger generation is largely unaware of the nuances of governmental forms but is inspired by the promises of Bernie Sanders and his policies. These individuals see health care, among other elements, as a crucial protection against the extensive financial uncertainties they face in their daily lives.

The third group comprises a mix of older to younger people who understand governmental systems well. They recognize that similar social programs already exist in other first-world countries, such as universal healthcare, retirement benefits, and social security. They see no need for socialism in these contexts since such programs align with the principles of a welfare state, not socialism.

The System's Fears

The prevailing fear regarding Bernie Sanders is the perceived threat to the existing system. Many are worried that he will gain power and use public funds to buy votes. Yet, this fear is not rooted in real threats but rather an unspoken fear of change. The current political system is built on the idea that those with wealth and power maintain their position by controlling narratives and policies that support this status quo.

For instance, if workers had a stronger voice in their workplaces through collective bargaining or worker cooperatives, the corporate landscape would become less tilted in favor of a few powerful entities. Similarly, seeing healthcare as a human right could weaken the grip that pharmaceutical companies and large healthcare corporations have on healthcare delivery. These are the reasons why the system, as guided by the wealthy and corporations, including the Democrats and Republicans, likes to frame Bernie Sanders' proposals as threats rather than opportunities for positive change.

Media Influence and Myth-Building

Another layer of fear comes from the narrative that has been built by media and powerful interests. The belief that if you don’t work for something, you don't deserve it, has long been promoted as a Christian tenet, although it is a construct used to maintain social and economic hierarchies rather than a true reflection of religious teachings. Over 2000 years, Christian churches and other powerful entities have spread this myth to keep the masses in a state of subservience. Despite evidence to the contrary, this narrative continues to be perpetuated as a way to maintain control.

Healthcare, education, and housing are not luxuries; they are basic needs that every person should have access to. The fear of Bernie Sanders is really a fear of the people gaining the power to address these issues, which threatens the current economic and social order.

Conclusion

The real fear behind the backlash against Bernie Sanders is not about a radical change but about the possibility of a systemic shift that could undermine the power structures in place. It is a fear that the American public is beginning to recognize, leading to a shift in how policies are perceived and discussed. Understanding the roots of fear helps us navigate the ongoing debate and strive for a more just and equitable society.