Smart People Podcast

Brainwashing, Mind Control, and Hyper-Persuasion with Harvard Professor, Rebecca Lemov

Mar 26, 2025

Harvard professor and author Rebecca Lemov dives deep into the unsettling world of brainwashing and mind control. She discusses the pervasive influence of social media on our perceptions and highlights the concept of 'ungrounding' as a precursor to behavior change. Sharing riveting historical examples from POW experiences, Lemov unpacks how subtle manipulations affect identity. Her deeply personal insights challenge us to recognize our vulnerabilities in a society steeped in psychological influence, prompting a reevaluation of reality.

38:24

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Episode guests

Rebecca Lemov

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Quick takeaways

Brainwashing is not just a historical phenomenon but a contemporary issue that affects everyone, particularly through social media's subtle influences.

The concept of 'ungrounding' illustrates how destabilizing experiences can lead to profound changes in beliefs and behaviors, highlighting the need for self-awareness.

Deep dives

The Nature of Brainwashing

Brainwashing, often perceived as a relic of the past, is argued to be a current and relevant concern in modern society. It is not merely an external phenomenon affecting others; everyone can be susceptible to its influences, especially in an age dominated by social media and personal relationships. The process can subtly alienate individuals from their true selves, often without their awareness. The significance of recognizing that brainwashing can happen to anyone serves as a reminder to remain vigilant about our own perceptions and beliefs.

Intro

3min

The Psychology of Brainwashing

7min

The Impact of Brainwashing During the Korean War

2min

The Legacy of Psychological Manipulation and Its Modern Echoes

4min

Breaking Free from Control

5min

The Psychology of Control: Understanding Brainwashing

15min

What if brainwashing isn’t just a Cold War relic, but something we’re all quietly experiencing every day? In this episode, Harvard professor and author Rebecca Lemov joins us to unpack the hidden mechanics of mind control—from historical POW camps to the subtle pull of your social media feed. We talk about the concept of “ungrounding,” how it sets the stage for behavior change, and why no one is immune—not even you. Rebecca also shares a deeply personal story that reshaped her understanding of influence, control, and identity. This isn’t fearmongering—it’s a powerful invitation to look more closely at how your reality is shaped. Eye-opening, timely, and surprisingly relatable. Tune in—you’ll walk away questioning more than you expected.

Rebecca's book, The Instability of Truth: Brainwashing, Mind Control, and Hyper-Persuasion, is available now!

Find out more about Rebecca at histsci.fas.harvard.edu/people/rebecca-lemov.