Inner Silence, Outer Chaos: A Cognitive Hypothesis on Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS)

This paper proposes that Trump Derangement Syndrome (TDS) and other emotionally reactive groupthink behaviors may stem from a neurological phenomenon—specifically, the absence or underdevelopment of an inner monologue. The resulting cognitive vulnerability contributes to heightened emotional susceptibility, ideological rigidity, and conformity in the face of propaganda. We present a hypothesis uniting political psychology, cognitive science, and evolving AI models to explain the increasingly cult-like behavior seen in various political and social movements. We also explore proposed countermeasures and technological interventions that could support inner monologue simulation or regeneration.