Defining the Path to Radicalization
Table of Contents: Introduction How are People Radicalized? Both Sides Are Not Alike – Far-Right Violence Mass Shootings and Incels QAnon Failed Predictions Debunking MAGA Election Fraud Claims Why False Beliefs Persist Despite Counterevidence Can We Intervene with Our Family? Conclusion References Introduction: Many of us have lost family members to radicalized beliefs and conspiracy theories, including myself. It is so deeply saddening and elicits feelings of powerlessness when we encounter a loved one who has unwaveringly lost their self-identity to a radical group. Losing loved ones to extremism can leave us wondering how someone who was once stable and rational can believe such blatantly false narratives. It leads to increased hostility, conflict, and dysfunction in the afflicted family. [26] My aim here is to provide an explanation for how individuals fall victim to such extreme and delusional beliefs. How are People Radicalized? Radica