Bulgarian populism has no shame
Evil tongues claim that even in Ancient Rome, public applause was given to anyone who could pay. An exception was made for those persons for whom it was considered unhealthy not to applaud. The remaining electorate –poor artists, actors and comedians – had to bow to the audience with the request “Clap, citizens!”, as a recognition of quality. This may be why the phrase “Praudite, cives!” began to be used sarcastically in oral practice, as an expression of disdain for exaggerated praise and merit. At that time, clapping became a necessary, well-paid and respected profession that survived over the centuries. It was illuminated by the pyres of the medieval inquisition… and still survived. It survived both the ironic brilliance of the Renaissance and the rational insights of the Enlightenment, all down to the present day. Today “clapping” can already be deemed a way of thinking, a worldview, a social and political indicator, a moral imperative, and a narrative that combines the incompatible…
