It's important to recognize that people's beliefs and political affiliations are complex and influenced by a variety of factors, including personal experiences, values, social environment, media consumption, and cultural background. When individuals strongly align with a particular ideology or political figure, such as the case with MAGA (Make America Great Again) extremists and their support for leaders like Donald Trump and Ron DeSantis, the process of forming and maintaining those beliefs can involve several psychological mechanisms:
Confirmation bias: People tend to seek out information that supports their preexisting beliefs and dismiss or ignore information that contradicts them. This can create a reinforcing cycle where they become more entrenched in their views.
Group identity and social conformity: Belonging to a group that shares similar beliefs can be a powerful motivator for individuals to adopt and maintain those beliefs. People often conform to the norms of their social groups to maintain a sense of belonging and acceptance.
Cognitive dissonance reduction: If contradictory information or actions arise from their chosen political leaders, individuals might engage in cognitive dissonance reduction strategies to resolve the discomfort caused by the inconsistency. This might involve rationalizing the behavior or finding ways to justify why they continue to support the leaders despite any perceived flaws.
Leader attractiveness and charisma: Some individuals may be drawn to charismatic leaders who project confidence and appear to align with their values and interests. Such leaders can create a strong emotional connection, making it challenging for followers to critically evaluate their actions objectively.
Emotional appeals and fear-mongering: Leaders might use emotional appeals and fear-based messaging to rally their supporters and strengthen their allegiance. This can create a sense of urgency and perceived threat, making followers more likely to overlook inconsistencies and remain loyal.
Selective information processing: Individuals might selectively consume media and information that reinforces their beliefs while avoiding or dismissing alternative viewpoints.
Regarding the specific question of which leader becomes their "alpha," it can vary from person to person. Some individuals might view both Trump and DeSantis as equally important and influential, while others may prioritize one over the other. The determination of their "alpha" is subjective and may depend on factors such as personal preferences, policy alignment, or the perceived strength of their leadership.
It's important to note that these processes are not unique to any particular political ideology or group. They can be observed in various political affiliations and belief systems across the ideological spectrum. Understanding these psychological mechanisms can help explain how people form and maintain their beliefs, but it's essential to approach these discussions with empathy, respect, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.