While it’s interesting that scientists are now characterizing the underlying biological mechanisms for this, it’s hardly surprising to learn that people who participate in ritual activity feel a stronger allegiance to the group. The article references Hitler and Mussolini as using this technique to enact their fascist regimes. While true, the same principle is applied by more benign groups like the Masons and the Methodists to cement group loyalty. Any Drill Sargent is well versed in this technique as is any team coach.

As we’ve discussed before in this forum, people have an inherent tribalistic tendency. They gravitate toward those they see as like them, and tend to reject those they see as different. It only makes sense that engaging in uniform ritualistic behavior enhances that feeling of sameness, and also trigger a stronger sense of those not participating as the outsiders.

So maybe this isn’t new news to most of you. But especially in the current political climate, I think we all need to be reminded now and again how easy it is to become a sheep. It is our natural tendency, and like many natural traits, it may be exploited for good or for evil. It certainly can’t be a bad thing for us to at least recognize when we are being herded.