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Crowd Quote by Robert Sapolsky

“Disgust is a very powerful tool for bringing about crowd violence. If a group can be dehumanized and made into the Other, the 'them,' to treat that group horribly is made much easier.” quote by Robert Sapolsky
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“Disgust is a very powerful tool for bringing about crowd violence. If a group can be dehumanized and made into the Other, the 'them,' to treat that group horribly is made much easier.”

Robert Sapolsky

About This Quote

Source Lecture: “The Psychology of Violence,” 2018

Disgust can dehumanize groups, making crowd violence easier.

In simple terms: Disgust fuels dehumanization and violence.

Key Takeaway

Beware of disgust‑driven narratives.

Themes

psychology violence social dynamics emotions ethics

Mood

analytical cautionary

Type

psychology social political

When to use this quote

  • protest movements
  • political rhetoric
  • media framing
  • social media

Key Concepts

Dehumanization group conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does disgust shape group attitudes?
  • What safeguards prevent dehumanization?
A Different Perspective

Violence also stems from fear and anger.

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