François CholletVerified account

Il corvo che dice al merlo: 'come sei nero!'

It has two pay-offs: smears your enemy & disarms them from directing the same accusation at you (truthfully).

Straight from Goebbels’ playbook

Yes, I've seen that for a couple decades plus.

"Stop the steal" being my personal favorite example right now.

It’s because they see it as a valid option, either because they would do it if the roles were reversed, or they are actively refraining from doing what they think the response would or should be.

I think it’s captured in the expression that they “can’t see past the end of their own nose.” Because an alternative non-ahole response is likely not readily observable by them.

Wait, who are you accusing of doing this?

This is what basically all politicians do. That's why I hate politics.

True, but IMO it's worth distinguishing "projection" as a psychological defense mechanism vs intentional and strategic hypocrisy