[txradioguy]

Believe it or not I understand that explanation.

But I do have one question.

"a control mechanism that precludes thought of any sort and punishes anyone who does."

So it it a sociopathic type of behavior in that context? Stir the pot, so to speak, then sit back and watch everyone react to the havoc they've caused?

Or am I just waaaaaaaay off base here?

[Dr.Zoidberg]

Well, "Any sort" is a little excessive, more like it drives thought into accepted and "positive" (towards the ends of the 'cult leader'*) directions using subtle and even overt peer pressure and manipulation. Sociopathic in that it tries to produce antisocial behavior towards those not of the group. Chaos is often the result, but not so much the intended outcome within the group. (Or so I would suspect.)

Try to cut a member from the herd to talk too and see how fast they close ranks to prevent the stray from being isolated. You'll find under the best circumstances intimidation and threats, under the worst physical attacks directed toward the interloper. Witness the violence during political protests against anyone who dares to present an idea contrary to the accepted dogma of the group..

I'm not a shrink (God forbid), these are nothing but my observations over time and from direct personal experience. (Don't ask...)

* cultist, politician, mullah, ect...