The Feds
68. Mattias Desmet: Mass Formation, Propaganda, US Elections, and Sincere Speech
Jan 7, 2025
Mattias Desmet, a professor at Ghent University and author of The Psychology of Totalitarianism, dives into the psychology of mass formation, elaborating on its manifestation during the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlights crucial distinctions between propaganda and truth while analyzing the implications for the 2024 US Election. The conversation emphasizes the vital role of free speech and sincere communication in combating societal conformity and restoring authentic connections. Desmet also reflects on the potential resurgence of spiritual beliefs and the dangers posed by transhumanism.
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Quick takeaways
- Mass formation is a psychological phenomenon where group conformity often leads to sacrificing critical thought for collective narratives.
- Propaganda significantly shapes public perception by exploiting societal anxieties, highlighting the importance of sincere speech as a form of resistance.
Deep dives
The Roots of Mass Formation
Mass formation is a psychological phenomenon where individuals within a group begin to conform to the same narrative, often without critical analysis. This process can lead to a collective disregard for personal interests and critical thought, as evidenced by historical totalitarian states. Educational institutions have demonstrated similar dynamics where academics ignore the replication crisis in research, choosing to adhere to established narratives rather than challenge them. Such behavior raises questions about why intelligent individuals can collectively endorse absurdities, and it underscores the essential role of group psychology in understanding mass formation.
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