In the early 21st century, certain leaders exploited public anxiety to position themselves as guardians against perceived threats. By instilling fear in the populace, these leaders aimed to consolidate their power while promoting a narrative of security. This tactic often involved manipulating emotions to gain loyalty and support.

Such mob leaderships typically sought a trade-off between safety and liberty, encouraging citizens to forfeit their freedoms in favor of promised security. This dynamic raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values and individual rights in the name of protection, highlighting the dangers of fear-driven governance.