The Nato summit showcased a peculiar dynamic: despite Trump's controversial behavior and remarks, he was treated with deference and respect by other Nato leaders. This raises an intriguing question: What is the source of Trump's power? The author argues that it lies not in his presidency, popularity, or strategic acumen, but in his willingness to defy norms, rules, and laws. Trump's approach is characterized by a lack of ethical standards, a disregard for collective judgment, and a focus on personal gain at any cost. This non-ethical, amoral behavior creates a sense of fear and uncertainty among those around him, as they are unsure of his next move. The author draws a parallel between Trump's actions and the concept of a 'first-mover advantage' in a community without established norms. Just as a thief can easily exploit a community's trust when no one locks their doors, Trump's actions create an advantage for himself by breaking norms, leaving others to deal with the consequences. This strategy has allowed him to accumulate wealth, power, and glory, even as it damages institutions and erodes trust. The author concludes that Trump's presidency will be remembered as both the most powerful and the worst, leaving a lasting impact on the world that will require significant effort and resources to rectify.
