I wish that populism could be 'cured' by addressing the underlying issues that susceptible voters appear to be vexed about. But while we should do that--it is, after all, the responsibility of those who take governance seriously--I doubt that a cure lies at the end of that road. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the problem is more psychological than political--the reality is that people like to be angry. Rage is a powerful, motivating force that gives the enraged a raison d'etre.

There will always be a reason to be furious, and unscrupulous people eager to monetize this aspect of human nature. The ultimate 'cure' for populism may lie in humanity's upward evolution. My concern is that we may not have that much time.