The term comes from the Latin language and is a single root with the words fanum (altar, temple) and fanaticus (frenzied). Definition of bigotry: this is a blind adherence to some idea, devotion to it with all nature. The main distinguishing features of a fanatic are:
- bias: he does not criticize his own beliefs, and does not take into consideration the arguments against them;
- intolerance of dissenters;
- willingness to sacrifice;
- neglect of generally accepted moral principles.
The psychology of fanaticism presupposes herdness, the consolidation of like-minded people into a single monolith limited by dogma. The mechanisms of disinhibition of the crowd are used: religious rituals, psychological and psychotropic influence, general pastime and education, sports chants and the like. For the victim of bigotry, he usually has only negative consequences: from mental disorders and loss of connection with the normal segment of society, and even to killings and suicides.
Fanaticism: forms and examples
The greatest chance of meeting with religious fanaticism. Its center of attraction is a cult and a cult figure, a religious idol, around which followers gather. The extreme degree of adherence to his deity, the willingness to bring himself and others to sacrifice him, the replacement of his own personality with a set of religious dogmas - all this makes a believer a religious fanatic. In fact, the faith of such a person is much weaker than the belief of a tolerant, broad-minded person.
The second as far as spread is national fanaticism. The idea of national unity, patriotism can turn into ugly chauvinism - the representation of one's own nation as the only full and worthy. It manifests itself in interethnic discord, opposition, is often connected with the military affirmation of "one's own" and the destruction of "strangers".
Surely everyone has heard about sports, and especially - about football fanaticism. From the usual fan fanatic distinguishes common signs: a frenzied desire to prove his (his team) superiority at any cost, aggression to all other athletes and teams. To some extent this is a more harmless kind, in comparison with the previous ones. For many men, this is an affordable way to relieve aggression, and simply distracted in a society of like-minded people.
Musical fanaticism is the newest in a relatively tolerant and prosperous society. Most often fanatics from music are young people, for whom this is one way to show one's own identity. An aggravating factor is the propensity of some musical trends and musicians to suicidal moods, destructive habits such as alcohol or drugs. Therefore, musical fans show antisocial behavior, often in these groups there is a first acquaintance with
How to get rid of fanaticism?
The most important condition for successfully overcoming fanaticism is the desire of the fanatic himself. It is important that a person becomes aware of his dependence. Unfortunately, passionate passion for some idea deprives people of the ability to think critically. Therefore, it is recommended to people who are not indifferent to hold a fanatic to the maximum, not to let him go deeper into his state, distract him with other activities and communication. If a person in the early stages has received support from close people, he is more likely to be able to get rid of obsession on his own. In the late stages, specialist help is required.