How *The Lord of the Rings* became a playbook for tech billionaires and far-right politics

How *The Lord of the Rings* became a playbook for tech billionaires and far-right politics

J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings has found an unlikely following among tech billionaires and far-right politicians. While the epic fantasy critiques power and greed, its themes are now being reinterpreted—or misused—by influential figures. From Silicon Valley to Italy’s government, the story’s symbols and lessons are shaping real-world ideologies and business names.

Yet experts argue that many readers miss the deeper warnings in Tolkien’s work. Instead of seeing it as a cautionary tale, some treat it as a guidebook for ambition and control.

The trilogy’s central object, the One Ring, corrupts anyone who wields it—even the noble Frodo Baggins. Scholars view this as a clear metaphor for the dangers of extreme wealth and unchecked power. The ring’s allure mirrors how fortune can distort judgement, a theme resonating in today’s tech industry.

Sauron’s orcs, often dismissed as mere villains, represent something more insidious in modern terms. Critics compare them to online trolls who spread division and hatred across digital platforms. The ‘dark hordes’ in the story are not just evil for evil’s sake but a complex reflection of how resentment and distrust can take hold in society. The book’s critique of power concentration has not stopped it from being adopted by political movements. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni once dressed as a hobbit, while far-right groups have embraced its themes of tradition and resistance. Meanwhile, Silicon Valley’s elite—including Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, and J.D. Vance—openly cite Tolkien as an influence. Companies like Palantir Technologies (named after the seeing-stones) and Anduril Industries (inspired by Aragorn’s sword) borrow directly from the lore. Even venture funds like Mithril Capital and Lembas Capital pull names from Middle-earth’s mythology. Yet the story’s heroes struggle with their own flaws—ambition, envy, and distrust—showing that darkness is not just external but internal. Experts warn that without self-critical reading, the book’s lessons risk being oversimplified or twisted. Guided discussions for wealthy readers could even become a small business idea, helping them see literature as more than just an instruction manual for success.

Tolkien’s work remains a powerful narrative, but its interpretations now vary widely. Tech leaders and politicians draw inspiration from its symbols, sometimes overlooking its warnings about power and corruption. The story’s lasting influence—seen in company names, political imagery, and personal philosophies—shows how fiction can shape real-world actions.

Understanding its deeper meanings may require more than casual reading. Without careful reflection, the lessons of The Lord of the Rings could be reduced to slogans rather than heeded as cautions.

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