

'The Ideological Brain' – Are Some People Hard-wired for Radicalisation?
13 snips Mar 19, 2025
Dr. Leor Zmigrod, a political psychologist and neuroscientist, dives into the neurological factors behind dogmatic thinking in this engaging discussion. She explores why certain individuals are more prone to radicalization, examining how personality traits and social dynamics play a role. Zmigrod highlights the dangers of conspiracy theories and the influence of social media on ideological rigidity, especially among youth. Additionally, she emphasizes the need for cognitive flexibility as a crucial tool in combating radical beliefs and fostering open-mindedness.
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Defining Ideology
- Ideology consists of a rigid doctrine and a rigid identity.
- These two components influence actions, perceptions of others, and hostility levels.
Ideology and Power
- Ideologies are goal-oriented and act as instruments of power.
- They offer a vision of utopia or a way to escape a dystopian present.
Seductive Power of Ideology
- Brains are predictive organs seeking coherence, making ideologies alluring.
- Ideologies provide explanations and a sense of community, fulfilling our communicative needs.