Study guide
Topic:
Sects, cults and subversive ideologies
Lecturer:
Introduction to the topic:
Some sects and cults have subversive potential, especially if they do not recognize the state and its laws. Their beliefs may be even linked to various conspiracy theories. These are the corner stone of QAnon, an online community, also referred to as a meta-conspiracy theory, a cult, a movement or even a religion. QAnon dominated in the USA from 2017 to 2021, but it retains some potential even today. It is a synthesis of various conspiracy theories with the dominant one based on the deep state: a shadow government consisting of Satan-worshipping pedophiles. These allegedly include some prominent figures mainly from democratic spectrum. Donald Trump, on the other hand, is allegedly secretly working to dismantle this dark network and save the children. QAnon is not a marginal not even a local phenomenon. It has gained millions of supporters in over 70 countries. The danger of QAnon stems from the fact that in exists in the online world that has no boundaries and its narratives are easily adaptable. Moreover, it represents a threat not only to its own members, as is usually the case with "traditional" sects and cults, but as turned out in the USA, it can also be a threat to society and the state. Its ideology has subversive potential and has already led to several violent incidents, including the assault on the Capitol, where QAnon followers were among the most visible ones.
There are several explanations of why some people tend to believe unsubstantiated claims, including conspiracy theories, or why they join sects and cults where members share a very specific interpretation of the world. These explanations are usually based on the psychology of the individuals, certain personality traits but a role is also played by cognitive biases. Last but not least, conspiratorial thinking is encouraged in the times of crisis or traumatic events especially if the trust in the state and its institutions has been weakened.
Instructions for the seminar here
Required sources:
1. KOSÁROVÁ, Dominika. Sects, cults and subversive ideologies (presentation)
2. BBC. QAnon: The conspiracy theory spreading fake news (9min). Available on youtube
Additional sources:
1. Mia Bloom on "QAnon" and Conspiracy Theories. Washington Journal,10 October 2022 (41 min). Available here.
2. Michael Schermer. Why people believe weird things. TED, 2006 (13min). Available here
Sources for your leisure time:
The Cult of Conspiracy: QAnon (documentary, 2021). Available here.