NAVIGATING SOCIAL COMPLIANCE

History—and, for many of us, our own lives—abounds with traumas that have forced the adoption of shaky logic as a means of survival. 

When individuals are placed in environments where there is significant pressure to conform, such as in educational institutions, workplaces, or even within family/friend groups, they may adopt rigid, dogmatic beliefs as a way to navigate and cope with the stress. These systems often reduce complex realities to binary choices—right or wrong, acceptable or unacceptable—forcing people to accept these simplified versions of reality to fit in, succeed, or avoid conflict. Under such conditions, the cognitive discomfort of uncertainty is alleviated by clinging to absolute truths handed down by authority figures, leading to dogmatism. This diminishes the need for critical thinking or open inquiry, as questioning or challenging the established beliefs can intensify social stress and risk ostracization. 

Thus, dogmatism often emerges as a coping mechanism in socially stressful systems that discourage ambiguity and dissent. These dogmas can have rippling effects for generations. Cultural norms that were established to mitigate the active social threats of one generation can persist long after the original threats have disappeared. In these cases, the challenge becomes not the original threat but the act of questioning the norm itself. However, by acknowledging these generational traumas and the dogmas they produce, we can begin to break free. By shining a light on these dark spots in history, we can liberate the minds of today from the logical copium that is dogma, paving the way for a more thoughtful and open society. 

 Let's peel back the curtain a bit more: 

Managing cognitive discomfort and embracing uncertainty are crucial for reducing dogmatic thinking and fostering psychological flexibility. Strategies such as mindfulness, critical thinking, emotional regulation, and a growth mindset can help individuals navigate cognitive discomfort and remain open to new perspectives. While psychoactive substances may offer temporary insights, they should be approached with caution and integrated thoughtfully. Ultimately, developing sustainable cognitive and emotional skills is key to navigating uncertainty and fostering a more open and adaptive mindset. 

However, it is critical that we don't exacerbate trauma mindlessly just to make our own points. As much as it is flawed, dogma offers a sort of comfort to people. Don't be so eager to take that away without providing a meaningful alternative.