Andy Borowitz: How American Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber | Amanpour and Company

As the world struggles with war, inflation and climate change, political leadership is needed now more than ever. Humorist Andy Borowitz believes good leadership is increasingly hard to find these days. His new book, “Profiles in Ignorance: How America’s Politicians Got Dumber and Dumber,” looks at America’s embrace of anti-intellectualism. He joins Walter Isaacson to talk about the danger this trend poses to our democracy.

Originally aired on September 23, 2022.

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Amanpour and Company features wide-ranging, in-depth conversations with global thought leaders and cultural influencers on the issues and trends impacting the world each day, from politics, business and technology to arts, science and sports. Christiane Amanpour leads the conversation on global and domestic news from London with contributions by prominent journalists Walter Isaacson, Michel Martin, Alicia Menendez and Hari Sreenivasan from the Tisch WNET Studios at Lincoln Center in New York City.

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[artysanmobile]

“Profiles In Ignorance.” That expression has got legs. There is enough background for that concept to fill many volumes of a new and better American history narrative.

[beegee]

I’m with Andy. Reading is critical to a broad base of knowledge which shapes our decisions.

[scottiemyman]

Finally, an analysis and critique of Ronald Reagan’s overly simplistic views. The father of trickle down. Thank you Andy.

[joandempsey]

My heart goes out to all sincere intellectuals in the US today. 💖

[Athena]

Intellectual curiosity and humility are really really good qualities, and it applies to everything, not just politics.

[bonniegaither]

Not to mention….Jimmy Carter is an amazing, caring human being!! He’s a saint in my book.

[nicolejohnson]

He's right about paying more attention to local politics.

[lorenrenee]

Andy thank you for sharing that insight. Reagan took us down a path that was disastrous and has torn the country apart. Clinton didn’t understand how incompetent Bush would be. There is a huge difference between charisma and intelligence. Andy you’re spot on.

[enatp]

Intellectual curiosity and willingness to acknowledge what you don't know seem like essential qualities for leadership - particularly on a national scale!

[krasnoz]

Trickle down ignorance lol . I miss Andy Borowitz. Humor is so important especially during these dark times. Look forward to reading his book.

[tontosvensen]

"Stupid is a condition; Ignorance is a choice" - Wiley Miller

[jackienaiditch]

I've been reading Andy Borowitz's book. It's incredibly funny and informative. Can't recommend it highly enough.

[davedalton]

Finally, someone who shares my views on Regan, particularly concerning his ignorance and his lack of intellectual curiosity. Yes, the Best and the Brightest led us into our morass in Viet Nam, and yet an intellectually curious and very bright JFK averted Armageddon during the Missile Crisis in 1962.

[DawneM-xj]

Intellectual humility and curiosity are essential qualities of a leader.

[alexandermayakovsky]

Finally, a guy who tells the truth about Ronnie Reagan.

[YouGoSheriGirl]

I remember my stepmother saying "Ronald Reagan's going to make us rich!" She was really excited and believed it. She'd always get mad whenever I said "Most people are stupid". There are millions who freely chose to be stupid because it seems easier. Then some conman runs off with their money.

[nelsrinden]

Reagan was an ACTOR! He was practiced in "learning his lines." His presidency was simply him playing his most significant role.

[renata]

Andy Borowitz, I just finished reading your book. It is a great read and very shocking since it shows us the intellectual level of those who became presidents and who should never have gotten there. Your writing is fluid, easy and most interesting. Thanks,

[janeth-ht]

Don't simply retire from something; have something to retire to. Start saving, keep saving, and stick to investments. Building wealth involves establishing routines, like consistently setting aside funds at regular intervals for smart investments

[glenrotchin]

A smart person understands what they don’t know.