Rory Stewart: The Long History of... Heroism: 5. New Heroes
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Sep 1, 2025 Dive into the evolving definition of heroism with a look at modern figures like Zelensky and controversial leaders like Trump. Explore how social media reshapes our perceptions and whether genuine heroes exist among the celebrity culture. The discussion reflects on extraordinary versus everyday heroes, emphasizing personal sacrifice and community commitment. Can we recognize heroism in the ordinary? This engaging conversation challenges listeners to rethink what it means to be a hero today.
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Heroism Recast By Media And Spectacle
- Modern heroism splintered into celebrities, superheroes and spectacle driven by media and social platforms.
- This shift makes attention and self-presentation central to contemporary claims of heroism.
Trump As A Media-Era Icon
- Rory Stewart presents Donald Trump as a modern icon who channels celebrity, reality TV and spectacle.
- Trump’s public persona rejects classical sacrifice and reframes heroism as media mastery.
Attention As Political Power
- Social media skills and theatrical provocation now substitute for traditional moral virtues in public leadership.
- Patrick Mackey argues Trump grasps feed-driven history as content to capture attention and agency.
