The kool-aid theory of social cohesion:
People demonstrate allegiance to a tribe by drinking tribal kool-aid. The more offensive the kool aid is to outsiders, the greater the demonstration of allegiance.
Internalization of tribe-specific delusions and hypocrisies becomes interpreted by the tribe as virtue. Virtue signaling = drinking the kool aid as publicly as possible.
This explains why brilliant people sometimes double down on their delusions and hypocrisies.
I’m just starting to listen to Jordan Peterson and Gad Saad discuss “Why do smart people double down on bad ideas?” I’m betting their explanation does NOT encompass Kool-Aid Theory. Why not? Because no one wants to admit that we ALL do this, under normal circumstances, to some extent.
Fountain
The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast • 553. Why Do Smart People Double Down On Bad Ideas? | Dr. Gad Saad • Listen on Fountain
Dr. Jordan B. Peterson and evolutionary psychologist Dr. Gad Saad reunite for a conversation that blends ancient myth, evolutionary theory, and cul...