In his column "Foule Option" published on La Nouvelle Tribune, Moroccan columnist Driss Jaydane explores the complex relationship between the concept of the people and the crowd. Jaydane delves into the philosophical and psychological aspects of crowd behavior, referencing Sigmund Freud's work "Psychologie collective et analyse du moi". He highlights how the crowd can be driven by primal instincts, leading to a breakdown in social norms and laws.
Jaydane argues that while the people are often seen as a noble and sovereign entity, the crowd is a different story altogether. He describes the crowd as a primal force that can be violent and destructive, driven by instinct rather than reason. This distinction raises important questions about how to govern and respond to crowd behavior, particularly in situations where the crowd's actions may be misinterpreted or misrepresented.
The columnist notes that the people are often idealized and romanticized, while the crowd is viewed with suspicion and fear. However, Jaydane suggests that this dichotomy is not always clear-cut, and that the line between the people and the crowd can be blurry. He argues that it is essential to exercise discernment when evaluating crowd behavior, rather than making assumptions or jumping to conclusions.
Jaydane also touches on the role of media in shaping public perception of crowd behavior. He notes that the image of the crowd can be distorted or manipulated, leading to a skewed understanding of the situation. This can have serious consequences, particularly if it leads to further polarization or violence.
The columnist draws on Freud's idea that the crowd is driven by the "id", or the primitive, instinctual part of the human psyche. He suggests that this can lead to a release of pent-up emotions and desires, which can be difficult to control or predict. This raises important questions about how to manage and respond to crowd behavior, particularly in situations where emotions are running high.
Jaydane's column is a thought-provoking exploration of the complex dynamics of crowd behavior. He argues that it is essential to approach these situations with nuance and discernment, rather than relying on simplistic or stereotypical understandings of the crowd. By doing so, Jaydane hopes to promote a more informed and empathetic understanding of the people and the crowd.
Ultimately, Jaydane's column challenges readers to think critically about the nature of crowd behavior and its relationship to the people. By exploring the complexities and nuances of this issue, Jaydane provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about governance, media, and social dynamics in Morocco and beyond.
Key points
- Driss Jaydane's column explores the distinction between the people and the crowd.
- The columnist argues that the crowd is driven by primal instincts, leading to a breakdown in social norms and laws.
- Jaydane emphasizes the importance of discernment when evaluating crowd behavior.
