Mattias Desmet & The Psychology Of Totalitarian... Apr 2026

: Desmet argues that our modern, mechanistic view of the world—treating humans and society like machines—has contributed to the psychological conditions that make us vulnerable to mass formation. Responding to Mass Formation

: Anxiety that is not attached to a specific object or threat, leaving people in a constant state of unease. MATTIAS DESMET & THE PSYCHOLOGY OF TOTALITARIAN...

: Because the "connection" felt by the masses is based on the shared narrative, any voice that questions the narrative is seen as a threat to their newfound sense of meaning and social cohesion. This leads to the "cancel culture" and dehumanization of dissenters often seen in totalitarian shifts. : Desmet argues that our modern, mechanistic view

: A lack of meaningful social bonds or a sense of community. : Desmet argues that our modern