While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, I will outline some common storylines that may contribute to the acceptance of extreme ideologies. Keep in mind that these are not set formulas, but rather general descriptions of problematic narratives. **1. Simple and seductive worldview**: These stories present a simple and straightforward explanation to summarize a complex world: * A binary opposition of good and evil* A clear distinction between "us and them"* An oversimplification of reality, such as "it's all a conspiracy" or "it's all the fault of the capitalists/government/elites" **2. Perceived injustice narratives**: These stories highlight the assumed or real injustices faced by an individual or group: * The injustice felt due to a past, present, or future that has been taken away* Authorities that are perceived to be arbitrary or oppressive* The inability to achieve desired outcomes (e.g., economic mobility) **3. Crisis and doomsday stories**: These stories describe a desperate and urgent situation: * A lost world that needs to be saved or rescued* Stuck in a difficult or negative situation that seems unchangeable* A system or institution that seems to be collapsing, declining, or threatened by enemies **4. Savior complex**: These stories introduce a heroic character who acts out of a desire to save the world: * A brave revolutionary or person who confronts authority* A plot in which a suffering person is willing to sacrifice himself to bring about a better future* One person with better knowledge or insight encourages others to follow them**5. Depersonalized ‘camaraderie’ narratives**: These stories often prioritize group identity over individual uniqueness: * People are reduced to simple categories that demand loyalty and obedience (e.g., “real ones” vs. “fake ones”) * Emphasize interdependence and shared goals among group members* Enforce conformity to norms, punish dissenters, and emphasize purity**6. Nostalgia for lost things and Tower of Babel syndrome**: These stories emphasize a past time that seemed perfect or less burdensome: * Nostalgia for a romanticized golden age* Visions of an ideal, restored past time* Expectations that are met, crises of responsibility and commitment**7. Arguments based solely on the interests of the group**: These stories often assume that the success of the group is paramount, regardless of personal harm: * High-minded discussions of altruism and sacrifice* Emphasis on the greater good, with personal grievances and problems often ignored**8. Misinformation, authenticity, and information overload**: These stories often mix true information with false information, creating cognitive dissonance: * Mixing of fact and fiction, propaganda, and rumor* Proclaim some omens or telltale signs that foreshadow the authenticity of their program* Adapt narratives to fit changing current events and success These narratives can be combined and modified to build a compelling story that may capture the imagination of some. However, it must be acknowledged that these stories often simplify issues, blur nuances, and may ignore inconvenient facts to maintain their narrative. Reflecting on the basic structure of these stories is key to identify potential biases and flaws and promote critical thinking, empathy, and nuanced discussion. Would you like to talk about another aspect of extremism?