Breaking beliefism Dr. Chris Kavanagh
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Jun 13, 2025 
In this discussion, Chris Kavanagh, an anthropologist at Oxford, dives into the world of secular gurus, illustrating how social media has heightened their impact. He examines the distinctions between these modern influencers and traditional intellectuals, highlighting their compelling characteristics. The conversation also touches on the role of experts during the pandemic, their expanded influence, and the dangers of mistaking confidence for knowledge. Kavanagh urges for open-mindedness to better navigate beliefs and viewpoints within our polarized society.
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Characteristics of Secular Gurus
- Secular gurus are modern figures who combine wide-ranging knowledge with provocative, anti-mainstream worldviews, often appealing to secular rather than religious ideas.
- They create strong in-group/out-group identities, foster grievance, and promise societal restoration, thriving especially in online environments.
Online Platforms Amplify Gurus
- Online platforms amplify secular gurus by making communities more accessible and fostering parasocial relationships without high demands on followers' time.
- This ease increases emotional connection and allows for more personalized influence than traditional guru-following methods.
Right-Wing Guru Dominance Today
- Left-wing gurus are less common currently and typically score lower on influence measures than right-wing figures like Jordan Peterson and the Weinstein brothers.
- In past decades, left-wing counterculture produced more guru-like figures, showing a shift in political affiliation among prominent gurus.