The Cognitive Function Test: A Critical Analysis of Biden and Trump

The Cognitive Function Test: A Critical Analysis of Biden and Trump

Recently, there have been discussions surrounding Joe Biden's reluctance to undergo a cognitive function test as part of the upcoming presidential physical examination. The argument often revolves around the question of whether such tests are a necessary or meaningful part of evaluating a candidate's fitness for office.

An Unnecessary Fuss

Jill states with certainty that such tests would yield negative results. This sentiment is echoed by many who believe that the presidential candidates are likely to pass these tests without issue. This applies not just to Biden, but also to Donald Trump. For instance, a 97-year-old uncle mentioned would likely pass such a test due to his lack of proficiency in repairing machinery, a situation that he clearly finds distressing. However, the real issue lies in the quality and relevance of the information these tests provide.

Insufficient Analysis and Misleading Claims

Trump, despite likely passing a cognitive function test, has made misleading claims regarding his economic policies. His proposal to decrease the marginal tax on corporations from 21% to 20% appears to be more about achieving a "round number" than any substantive economic rationale. This aligns with his history of filing numerous bankruptcies, indicating a lack of understanding and practical experience in managing complex financial matters.

The Role of Experts in Policy-Making

Policy-making is a complex task that requires deep expertise and practical experience, particularly in areas such as finance and governance. Despite Trump's background, the majority of business leaders, including CEOs and CFOs, do not support him. A notable poll conducted among these experts reveals that not a single representative across the political spectrum backed Trump, with every respondent being a Republican except for one democrat. This stark division highlights the disconnect between the business community and Trump's policies.

The Limitations of Cognitive Function Tests

While cognitive function tests might be useful in certain contexts, their application in assessing a presidential candidate's fitness for office is questionable. More emphasis should be placed on the practical experience and track record of the candidate. For instance, tests can include simple questions like, "Who is the current president?" The ability to accurately answer such questions reflects familiarity and awareness, but it does not necessarily validate one's suitability for the role.

Furthermore, cognitive function tests seem to be more relevant for individuals whose cognitive abilities are in question, rather than for seasoned politicians. For instance, a septuagenarian who lives an inconspicuous life and faces no significant cognitive challenges would indeed pass such a test. However, this does not necessarily mean that they are the best candidate for leadership.

The quality of policy-making is not solely determined by one's ability to recall basic information but by their capacity to implement sound policies based on research, experience, and practical expertise. The involvement of business leaders in policy-making could provide a more balanced and informed approach to governance.

Finally, the current state of our political processes, with both houses of Congress and the Senate harboring confusion and lack of cohesive structure, underscores the need for a renewed focus on improving these systems. While such changes are complex and would require a significant amount of time, it is imperative that we focus on strengthening the mechanisms of democracy to ensure better governance.

In conclusion, while cognitive function tests serve a purpose, they are not a silver bullet in evaluating a presidential candidate's fitness for office. A more holistic approach that considers practical experience, policy-making abilities, and the track record of the candidates is necessary to ensure the best governance. The current political landscape demands such a shift in focus to achieve a more effective and accountable leadership.