Think, Laugh, Cry (TLC) Issue 16
Why does extremism feel so good...and why is it so hard to escape? Brent Johnson dives into the tribal pull behind radical beliefs. Ready to challenge your own?
THINK
In today's increasingly polarized world, tensions are rising across political, social, and ideological spectrums.
Societies globally are witnessing a clash of competing extremist views, each promising starkly different visions of identity, morality, and social order.
As divisions deepen and dialogue wanes, the appeal of extremism grows, demanding an exploration of why it resonate so powerfully.
Extremism holds a paradoxical effectiveness rooted deeply in human psychology: it thrives because it is fundamentally tribal in nature.
Humans evolved as social creatures, depending heavily on tight-knit groups for survival, validation, and identity.
Extremist ideologies exploit this inherent tribal instinct, drawing individuals into clearly defined "us versus them" narratives that offer belonging, purpose, and a sense of superiority over outsiders.
The tribal nature and strong sense of community involved naturally appeal to individuals who feel isolated, lonely, or disconnected, offering them a sense of inclusion and collective identity.
In today's digital age, where people often spend significant amounts of time on screens, feelings of loneliness and isolation are increasingly prevalent, thereby enhancing the allure of extremist communities.
What makes some people more susceptible to these psychological hooks than others? And what mechanisms make it so difficult to pull away once inside?