
A History of Brainwashing and its Use Today
KQED's Forum
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Unpacking Brainwashing: Historical and Modern Perspectives
This chapter explores the mid-20th century understanding of brainwashing through psychological theories, especially in relation to Freudian psychology and behaviorism. It examines historical cases, including the Korean War and the Patty Hearst incident, to illustrate the complexities of psychological manipulation and societal perceptions. The conversation evolves to consider contemporary implications, raising questions about political devotion and the pervasive influence of digital media on beliefs and behavior.
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