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Have you ever wondered why we believe what we believe? Is it because we've been presented with undeniable facts, or have we blindly bought into a fantasy story, a fairy tale spun to sell us something we'd otherwise reject? In today's era of fake news and alternative facts, it's crucial to question why this way of thinking has become so mainstream.
According to psychologists, cases of narcissism have surged globally, closely correlating with the rising popularity of conspiracy theories. This has led to a damaging state of collective narcissism, making the world more selfish than it has ever been before.
Narcissism spans a spectrum, from the merely charming to the full-blown narcissistic personality disorder, where individuals are so self-important they manipulate others to maintain their inflated self-belief. While media often portrays narcissists negatively, history is rife with influential narcissistic leaders like Alexander of Macedon and Napoleon Bonaparte.
Recent studies reveal that narcissists can display empathy under certain conditions, suggesting that concern for others can be nurtured even in the most self-centered individuals.
Collective narcissism describes a group that holds an inflated view of their faction above all others. Unlike individual narcissism, collective narcissism demands special treatment and often surfaces during social hardships. This phenomenon can be observed across various movements, political, social, or technological.
Dr. Agnieska Goliczewska of Goldsmiths London has been studying collective narcissism for over a decade. She warns that it leads to perceived threats from external groups, triggering a defensive response regardless of whether these threats are real or imagined.
Conspiracy theories have become a convenient tool for collective narcissists, providing a narrative that their movement is so revolutionary that shadowy forces seek to undermine it. These theories rely on vagueness to dismiss mainstream ideas, offering an alternative explanation that resonates with those who feel their movement is not accepted by the mainstream.
The 2016 American presidential campaign is a stark example of this, where collective narcissists found strength in the constant stream of conspiracies promoted by the Donald Trump campaign.
Collective narcissism and conspiracy theories create an echo chamber that prevents us from acknowledging harsh truths. As voters and citizens, we must hold ourselves and our ideas accountable, rather than assuming elites are out to undermine our movements.
To combat this, we need to foster critical thinking and empathy, encouraging a rational approach to information. This involves questioning our beliefs, seeking evidence, and engaging in open dialogue with those who hold differing viewpoints.
In conclusion, collective narcissism and conspiracy theories are not just harmless quirks but pose a significant threat to our society. By embracing critical thinking and empathy, we can move towards a world where the truth matters more than our ability to argue on behalf of lies.
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