The roots of dogmatism
Psychological and social factors behind the destructive practice
"The uncompromising attitude is more indicative of an inner uncertainty than a deep conviction. The implacable stand is directed more against the doubt within than the assailant without."— Eric Hoffer
“I’d rather have a question I cannot answer than an answer I cannot question”— Richard Feynman
Dogmatism, defined as the rigid adherence to beliefs or opinions that reject questioning or alternative perspectives, arises from psychological, social, and cultural dynamics. It addresses fundamental emotional human needs for certainty, belonging, control, and identity.
While dogmatism is commonly associated with fundamentalist religions and authoritarian governments, it exists today in many everyday areas including politics, social ideologies, and social media.
Psychological, Social, and Evolutionary Foundations
Psychologically, dogmatic thinking provides seeming clarity and stability in an unpredictable world. For people who struggle with ambiguity, fixed beliefs offer a sense of security by reducing cognitive dissonance. By presenting ironclad black-and-white solutions, dogmatism simplifies complex issues, requiring less mental effort than engaging with nuance or uncertainty. When beliefs are deeply tied to personal identity, challenges to those beliefs often feel like personal attacks, triggering defensiveness and rigidity.
Socially, dogmatism attempts to create group identity and order. Within such groups, rigid beliefs are reinforced through social validation, while dissent is punished, discouraging critical thinking and open dialogue.
From an evolutionary perspective, dogmatism developed as a survival mechanism. Shared beliefs and group loyalty helped early human communities cooperate and remain united against external threats. Today, dogmatic thinking often intensifies when people or groups perceive themselves as being under threat.
Dogmatism as a Tool of Control and Abuse
Dogmatism can be wielded as a tool to manipulate individual and collective behavior. Through repeated messaging, rituals, and the exploitation of emotions like fear, hope, and loyalty, it promotes mass obedience under the guise of unity.
For those in power, dogmatism becomes a justification for unethical actions, often rationalized as necessary for the “greater good.” Critics are silenced through censorship, smear campaigns, or violence, while leaders maintain an illusion of moral superiority.
In today’s interconnected world, social media algorithms and information bubbles exacerbate dogmatism. These systems expose people to content that aligns with their preexisting beliefs, creating feedback loops that reinforce rigid thinking. Social media mobs, cancel culture, and forums that ban alternative views are examples of modern dogmatism that is as illiberal as any old-time fundamentalist church.
The Problems with Dogmatic Thinking
Dogmatism stifles personal growth and critical thinking. Its black-and-white approach to complex issues is inherently flawed, as the world is too intricate to be fully understood through rigid thinking or single models. By discouraging questioning and exploration, dogmatism hinders the pursuit of truth.
A significant danger of dogmatism is its tendency to perpetuate errors. The refusal to consider alternative perspectives makes it harder to recognize and correct mistakes, leading to poor decisions at personal and societal levels. Dogmatism also fosters an “us vs. them” mentality, deepening divisions, creating intolerance, tribalism, and misunderstanding people. It fuels discrimination, persecution, and violence.
Reject Dogmatism
Dogmatism must be actively countered and rejected. Dogmatic thinking—whether used as a tool of power or an expression of psychological and intellectual deficiencies—is inherently destructive.
It represents an immature mindset rooted in arrogance, insecurity, and delusion—the belief that one holds the sole and unquestionable truth and all must follow it. It is an overcompensation for emotional and psychological deficiencies.
In a world that demands growth, curiosity, and cooperation, dogmatism is a barrier to progress, understanding, and justice. It must be replaced with open-mindedness, critical thinking, and the humility to accept uncertainty and complexity.
See Also
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References
“New psychology study provides insight into fundamental cognitive processes linked to dogmatism” (Psypost)
“Studies Help Understand Why Some People Are So Sure They’re Right” (Neuroscience News)
“Dogmatic people seek less information even when uncertain” (University College London and Max Plank Institute)
“The Dangers of Dogmatism” (Albert Ellis Institue for Behavior Therapy)
“The Dogmatic Personality: Cognitive, Emotional, and Behavioral Dimension” (psychology professor Bruce Lerro)
“How Public Discourse Is Harmed By Social Media Mobbing” (McGuinty Law Offices)
“Social media must not rob us of the right to change our minds” (The Guardian)