Dorian Lynskey, a commentator on the cultural evolution of psychological terms, joins co-host Ian to dissect the phenomenon of gaslighting. They explore its historical roots, tracing it from a 1938 play to a buzzword in politics, particularly during Trump's campaign. The duo discusses the implications of misusing the term and the difference between gaslighting and lying. They also reflect on the psychological tactics behind gaslighting in both personal relationships and state-sponsored manipulation, encouraging clarity amidst the confusion.
The term 'gaslighting' has evolved from its origins in a 1938 play to encompass psychological manipulation in both personal and political contexts.
Events like the Trump presidency and the #MeToo movement have amplified awareness of gaslighting, illustrating its significant societal implications and relevance.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Gaslighting
The term 'gaslighting' has evolved significantly since its origins. Originally a concept from a 1938 play, its modern usage gained popularity around 2016, particularly during the Trump presidency, where it was noted as a method of psychological manipulation. Events such as the Harvey Weinstein scandal and the #MeToo movement further mainstreamed the term, highlighting its relevance in both personal relationships and political discourse. The American Dialect Society even named it the most useful word of the year in 2016, cementing its place in contemporary vocabulary.
The Psychological Impact of Gaslighting
Gaslighting refers to a psychological manipulation where one person causes another to question their own reality, leading to self-doubt and confusion. The technique involves various methods such as denial, trivialization, and countering, which can create significant emotional distress for the victim. Its impact extends beyond personal relationships into broader societal dynamics, indicating that even institutions can engage in gaslighting tactics by distorting facts. This manipulation can lead individuals to doubt their perceptions and understanding of truth, resulting in a dangerous erosion of self-confidence.
Gaslighting in Political Contexts
The application of gaslighting extends into the political realm, with notable examples like Donald Trump's declarations that challenged observable facts, prompting widespread perceptions of manipulated reality. Political analysis increasingly uses psychological terminology to describe certain behaviors, often equating them with gaslighting when they involve misleading constituents or the public. However, caution is advised in broadening the definition of gaslighting to encompass all forms of disagreement or manipulative rhetoric, as this may dilute its significance as a psychological term. Recognizing the spectrum and intent behind actions is crucial to understanding the subtleties of gaslighting in both personal and political contexts.
Over the past eight years, the word “gaslighting” has transformed from an obscure term in psychiatric literature into a ubiquitous buzzword to describe the kind of deceit that makes you feel like you’re losing your mind. But are we using it correctly? What explains its sudden popularity? And is it entirely wise to import a psychological term into the world of politics? Dorian tells Ian how the title of Patrick Hamilton’s hit 1938 play Gaslight gradually became a verb and eventually went viral during Trump’s first presidential campaign in 2016. The story ranges from Ingrid Bergman and I Love Lucy to George Orwell and the Stasi before landing amid the current election dust-up between Trump and Kamala Harris. Strictly facts, no gaslighting, we promise.
Written and presented by Ian Dunt and Dorian Lynskey. Music by Jade Bailey. Art by Jim Parrett. Logo by Mischa Welsh. Audio production by Simon Williams. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. Origin Story is a Podmasters production