I know. I'm a little surprised that they expected people to forget that translation services exist. But it fits with how people get sucked into a lot of cults,

I know. I'm a little surprised that they expected people to forget that translation services exist. But it fits with how people get sucked into a lot of cults, fraudulent cults, MLMs and the like. (I'm obviously listing nefarious uses. Something similar happens in many relationships.) First get your target (emotionally or financially) invested. Then put them in a position where they have to accept something uncomfortable (investing emotionally even more), or back out. Repeat and intensify In extreme cases you try to get them to be swallowing a stream of erratic and blatant lies. At that point you can do anything. Yes. This says that there is likely a direct connection between Trump's erratic behavior and the fanatical loyalty that he inspires. If you trust him, you have to follow his latest whim. And following his latest whim strengthens your trust. Many charismatic leaders do this.