Psychologists Explain How MAGA Followers Become Trapped in a Cult-Like Mindset

In a recent podcast episode, cult-specialist Steven Hassan spoke with social psychologist and neuroscientist Jay Van Bavel about the mechanisms of conformity and groupthink. Van Bavel highlighted how social media polarization, identity politics, and psychological warfare can brainwash individuals, turning political groups into cult-like entities. He used Enron as an illustration of a corporate cult and explained that once people identify with a group, they look to leaders and peers for behavioral cues, which can lead either to positive norms or to blind conformity and rationalization of harmful actions.

The discussion noted that the MAGA movement often cuts off members from external sources, fostering cognitive dependence and making it difficult to leave the echo chamber. Both experts emphasized the need for political leaders to promote healthy norms and dissent within communities. Van Bavel also pointed out that hyper-partisan several outlets.