How cult leadership can derail democracies

2
859
How cult leadership can derail democracies | Baaghi TV

Humans have a natural inclination toward hero-worship, often seen in the admiration of sports stars and actors, which is deeply ingrained in our culture. However, this tendency becomes dangerous when people start idolizing unethical leaders, leading to the rise of a cult of personality. This phenomenon is not limited to autocratic regimes but is increasingly affecting democracies.

Today, the cult of personality flourishes as individuals place their trust in “great men” with absolute power to solve significant social and economic issues. For instance, China’s President Xi Jinping and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin have positioned themselves as “Presidents for Life.” Their regimes employ compliant propaganda machinery to create an aura of invincibility, fostering a culture of hero-worship. In Pakistan, a similar trend can be observed with Imran Khan.

President, PM & armed forces reaffirm solidarity with Kashmiris

India’s illegal actions in IIOJK threat to regional peace: DG ISPR

PCB signs historic MoUs to boost cricket in Pakistani educational institutions

Death anniversary of Shamim Ara being observed today

For more such Opinions & Blogs, click here.

Whether a democracy is capitalistic or socialistic, it requires an environment that promotes freedom of opinion and dissent. For democracy to function effectively, its supporters must actively engage in the political process, focusing on policies and issues rather than the hype surrounding charismatic leaders. Informed and critical supporters can help curb the self-importance, egotism, and aggression that leaders might develop from excessive admiration. Encouraging leaders to critically assess their own competencies and achievements can better serve democratic principles.

Conversely, blind obedience poses a significant threat to democracy. The cost of maintaining vain leaders can lead to national divisions, incite violent behavior among followers, and undermine freedom and justice. It is crucial to distinguish between political parties and political cults. Political parties operate based on manifestos, whereas political cults elevate their leaders to a god-like status, thriving on hatred towards other parties deemed irredeemably corrupt.

Israeli Strikes Hit Gaza Schools, Hospital Compound After Talks Fail

Mehbooba Mufti placed under house arrest, party office sealed in Srinagar

Aug 5 steps violation of UN resolutions, int’l laws, 4th Geneva Convention: Dar

Hasina lands in India’s Agartala, local media reports say

Dr Rashid Wali Janjua, in his op-ed published in July 2023, quoted from a book by Dr. Steven Hassan, “The Cult of Trump,” who explains how cult leaders like Trump use mind control techniques such as ‘BITE’ (Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional control) to exert hypnotic influence over their followers, affecting even the educated and rational segments of society.

It is the people, supporters of parties who must constantly access, evaluate & question their leaders to ensure they stay on the correct path.

For more such Opinions & Blogs, click here.

Bangladesh set to receive major boost for Pakistan Test series

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid ‘resigns’

At least 73 killed as clashes rock Bangladesh, curfew imposed

Youm-e-Shuhada: Armed forces pay tribute to police sacrifices

India on the Brink of Fragmentation by 2047

The writer is a lawyer, academic and political analyst. She has authored a book titled ‘A Comparative Analysis of Media & Media Laws in Pakistan.’ She can be contacted at: yasmeenali62@gmail.com and tweets at @yasmeen_9

Stay tuned to Baaghi TV for more. Download our app for the latest news, updates & interesting content!

2 comments

  1. shokee ahmed 6 August, 2024 at 16:27 Reply

    Cult leadership is dangerous not only for democracies but for autocracies as well.
    When Churchil was told about the indispensibility of a certain ‘cult leader’ he
    brought the guy to a grave yard and told him about the invinicibility of ;eople
    buried here. Except God nobody is indispensible!! So what about Imran Khan and Putin etc.
    I give credit to Yasmin for such a nice analysis about ‘cult prathna’ of some motal
    so called leaders. SDHABBASH!!

Leave a reply