The perils of extreme behavior

We have been so divided in recent years; let's not be divided any further. SYRIZA and Independent Greeks (ANEL) invested in hatred and division. They tapped into the dark world of the internet and the social media. They gave voice to people's frustration and amplified popular anger. They indoctrinated citizens with the notion that there is no limit to protest, both in terms of violence and rhetoric. They cultivated a primitive nationalism directed against Germany and its role in Greece's bailout programs. They targeted individuals and media organizations. They defamed innocent people on the basis of misguided gossip.

A small minority that tried to warn people against feeding the monster of populism, because it would eventually bite back. They laughed the warnings off. "Your words are dictated by fear," they said. Now they too are afraid as they see the monster baring its...