The concepts of idealism and cynicism are not new when we discuss social issues, or politics in general.

Are we in an age where people are more inspired to get their points across? Or are people so disillusioned with the system as is, that they see no point in getting involved?

It is a confusing prospect, particularly when you consider how it’s almost impossible to describe the entirety of our present societal climate under only those two views.

Ultimately, I can only offer commentary based on what I have experienced, and truth be told I’m as confused as you are. Do we truly live in a generation that wants change? Or do we live in a generation that wants to hold progress back? Could it just be that I’m asking this question the wrong way?

I ask these questions often in light of long-running issues, whether it was the recent riots in Ferguson, Mo., our conflicting discourse on the environment or in this case, the controversial and dubious presidential run of Donald Trump (for that matter, we might as well start discussing Kanye’s bid in 2020).

You’ve definitely heard all the things Trump has been saying by now, from a vast array from racist, xenophobic rhetoric, to scattered sexist comments, disrespectful statements to veterans and overall buffoonery when in the face of serious questions on foreign policy and national security.

As a presidential candidate, we expect him to embody a truer spirit of not only an exceptional American, but an exceptional person. Trump is neither, you and I know that.

Yet when I see Trump polling higher than the other more qualified republican candidates, I can’t help but feel very sick inside, and wonder why people think so favorably of him.

That’s when the cynicism kicks in, and Trump turns from a self-absorbed loon in my head to an unstoppable menace.

The only problem with this reaction is that ultimately, cynicism will not stop the beast. Idealism has often been perceived as something for the naive to hold on to until reality or maturity kicks in, but I urge you to reconsider.

During our revolutionary war we fought against a bigger and stronger British army, but our idealism that helped us push off the shackles of British rule, against all odds, and make us a free nation.

During the second world war, the Nazis were a truly cruel foe capable of great evil. Yet it was the shared idealism of the allies that helped them overcome one of the worst conflicts in history.

I believe the same applies today. Donald Trump is an impudent man who has manipulated his followers into an agenda that takes advantage of their fears and ignorance.

To stop him, we cannot give in. We must believe that as Americans, we can elect someone better than Trump. Even though we might all believe different things, we can unite against Trump. We owe that much to ourselves.