Susie Dent suggests that pinpointing the “snollygosters” and “mumpsimus” in our society can offer individuals a sense of calm amidst tumultuous political climates. Drawing a parallel to the fairy tale of Rumpelstiltskin, Dent emphasizes the power of naming and thereby diminishing the influence of these elements. A “snollygoster” typically denotes a cunning yet unethical politician, while “mumpsimus” describes someone adamant about their correctness despite contrary evidence.
Dent, renowned for her appearances on the UK Channel 4 games shows “Countdown” and “8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown” with comedian Jimmy Carr, is set to release a book titled “Words for Life: To Boost Every Day of the Year” in March. Highlighting words that have stood the test of time, Dent underscores their relevance in the upcoming year.
According to political scientist Jamie Gillies, understanding these terms aids in articulating situations accurately. Gillies, a public policy professor at St. Thomas University in Fredericton, points out that commonly used terms like “tyranny” and “authoritarianism” may fall short in capturing the nuances of current events.
The term “snollygoster” originated as a mythical monster employed by parents to caution children into good behavior. Its modern adaptation characterizes an unprincipled individual, particularly a crafty politician focused on personal gain, as explained by Dent. Gillies suggests that this label resonates with various politicians today, including officials during the Trump administration and certain Canadian parliamentarians who switched parties.
Another pertinent term, “empleomania,” denotes an obsessive craving to retain public office at any expense. Dent notes its widespread applicability to numerous leaders. Gillies points to historical figures like Ferdinand Marcos of the Philippines and Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela to illustrate this trait in political contexts involving personal enrichment.
Dent advocates that familiarizing oneself with such vocabulary aids in navigating political challenges. Acknowledging and naming emotions or experiences, such as the Old English term “uhtcearu” for pre-dawn anxiety, can provide solace by recognizing shared human sentiments. Gillies underscores that these words not only enhance our understanding of current affairs but also inject a touch of humor and wit into discussions, potentially offering a more nuanced depiction of ongoing events.
