Opinion | The Rise and Fall of Elon Musk - The New York Times

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Elon Musk's Ideological Roots

The article explores the contrast between Elon Musk's self-portrayal as a futurist and the traditional, even antiquated, nature of his political and economic ideas. It argues that many of his proposals are not novel but rather echo the views of his grandfather, Joshua Haldeman, a prominent figure in the technocratic movement.

Contrasting Visions

The piece juxtaposes Musk's approach with that of Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal. While Roosevelt's administration focused on job creation and social programs, Musk's actions have been characterized by job elimination and dismantling of social initiatives.

  • Musk's vision is presented as a departure from the liberal democracy chosen in 1932.
  • His actions are contrasted with the New Deal's focus on job creation and social safety nets.

Influence of Family History

A significant aspect of the article highlights the influence of Musk's grandfather's beliefs on his current political stances. The author suggests that Musk's ideas about politics, governance, and economics align with those of his grandfather, who was a flamboyant leader of the technocratic movement.

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