from Psychology Today:

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Description

Here is one of the best descriptions from Psychology Today: " Definitions vary, but a basic one that applies across disciplines is, "A religion or sect, generally considered to be extremist or false, under the guidance of an authoritarian, charismatic leader for whom members exhibit fixed, even religious, veneration." Mr. Trump's most devoted followers are a relatively small part of the U.S. electorate. They tend to believe in a very specific idea of patriotism that includes international isolationism and xenophobia, under the guidance of a man who some claim was "chosen by God" to lead them. To further understand how Mr. Trump and his followers may match the definition of a cult, it is helpful to look at how their behaviors compare to the most common behaviors of cults. Cults are typically characterized by: One charismatic leader is the group's sole authority on truth; only this leader decides, or has the right to approve, all policies and practices. Members are zealous, protective, and unquestioningly committed to the leader. Ex: A group of militant fans of Mr. Trump tried to run a Biden/Harris campaign bus off the road in Texas, endangering multiple drivers on the highway. Members regard the leader's beliefs and practices as truth and law; the leader affirms and enforces this idea. Ex: Many of Trump's supporters reportedly believed his false claims about immigrants being more likely to commit serious crimes. The group uses public humiliation or punishment to suppress individualism and doubt. article continues after advertisement Ex: During the Impeachment trial of Mr. Trump, his supporters in the general public and Congress relied on insulting the Democrats presenting the case and their witnesses, instead of arguing facts. Criticism or jokes about the leader or group are taken very seriously and likely punished. Ex: The refusal to participate in the White House Correspondents Dinner for four straight years may be an example of this approach. The group is elitist, claiming special status for itself, its leaders, and its members. Ex: Some of Trump’s followers report believing that they are “more patriotic” than others. The leader and members maintain theirs is the only path to truth and salvation. Ex: Mr. Trump has repeated the position that only he can fix America’s problems. Donald Trump has effectively used the pull of his personality to convince many of his followers that they are part of something bigger than themselves. He has convinced them that they are part of an in-group of “real Americans” that can achieve a level of greatness they dream of, and that only he can lead them to that mythical state. We are seeing the consequences of this play out now in our national elections, a topic I will get further into in the second part of this series. " "Hogan M Sherrow Ph.D. You Evolving Can Trump's Followers Be Called a "Cult"?