Psychologist reveals why MAGA is  'trapped in their universe'

September 8, 2026 - 00:34

In a recent episode of his podcast, cult expert Dr. Steven Hassan sat down with social psychologist and neuroscientist Dr. Jay Van Bavel to break down the mechanics of group identity and conformity. The conversation zeroed in on how political movements, especially the MAGA base, can become sealed off from outside information, creating what Hassan calls a self-contained universe.

Van Bavel, who studies how the brain processes social belonging, described how polarization is not just a political problem but a psychological one. When people tie their personal identity to a political group, they start to see challenges to that group as attacks on themselves. The brain reacts the same way it would to a physical threat. That triggers defensive thinking, not critical thinking.

The two experts discussed how social media amplifies this effect. Algorithms feed users content that confirms what they already believe, while blocking out opposing views. Over time, a person can lose the ability to even recognize conflicting facts. Van Bavel pointed out that this is not a matter of low intelligence. It is a matter of social survival. People would rather stay connected to their tribe than be right about an issue.

Hassan, who has spent decades studying high-control groups, compared the dynamic to what happens in cults. He said that when a political movement uses fear, us-versus-them language, and constant repetition of key slogans, it creates a closed loop. Members begin to distrust all outside sources, including mainstream media, scientists, and even election results. They only trust the leader and the inner circle.

The episode also touched on how to reach someone who is trapped in that mindset. Van Bavel suggested that direct confrontation rarely works. Instead, he recommended finding shared values and asking questions that encourage people to think about their own reasoning. He noted that once someone feels safe and respected, they are more open to considering new information.

Hassan agreed, but he warned that breaking through requires patience. He said that people inside such a belief system often need a major emotional event or a trusted friend to help them step outside their bubble. Until then, they remain locked in a reality that feels true to them, even when it is not supported by facts.