Imagine That You Are Approached by a Member of a Prominent

question 66

Essay

Imagine that you are approached by a member of a prominent cult in this country. On his or her invitation, you attend several cult meetings. As a result, you begin to believe that this group has some good ideas, but you still have some doubts about becoming a member. You are asked for a financial contribution, which you give. After several months, you find that you have donated a great deal of time and money to the group. Eventually, without even hearing any new arguments or propaganda, you believe everything the group stands for-they can do no wrong. You have become a devout member of the cult. How would a social psychologist explain this phenomenon? Be sure to cite research to support your answer.

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Definitions:

Transmitting Thoughts

The process of conveying ideas, opinions, or information from one person to another through verbal or non-verbal communication.

Communication

The process by which information is exchanged or conveyed between two or more individuals through verbal, non-verbal, written, or digital means.

Channels

Mediums or pathways through which messages are communicated from sender to receiver, such as verbal, non-verbal, written, and digital forms.

Receiver

In communication, the individual or group who interprets and attempts to understand the message sent by another person or entity.