In addition to the pull of charismatic leaders, the social support of fellow cult members, and the isolation of cult members from dissenting viewpoints, why else to cult members behave as they do?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The high degree of cognitive dissonance in members' minds is one of the primary reasons for their behavior in cults. Cult members are typically convinced that their group and its teachings are the only true path to enlightenment or salvation, and that all other viewpoints are misguided or evil. This creates a strong sense of cognitive dissonance when members encounter information or experiences that conflict with their beliefs, leading them to either dismiss the conflicting information or double down on their beliefs and become even more committed to the group's ideology. This cycle can lead to increasingly extreme behavior and a greater willingness to engage in harmful or risky activities in service of the group's goals.

In Addition to the Pull of Charismatic Leaders, the Social