Radicals are people who have rejected the society that they live in and want to construct a very different one. By definition, all anarchistss are radicals.
Radicalisation
Radicalisation is the process by which a person becomes a radical. It refers to a dramatic shift in how that person sees the world and their role in it, and it creates a persistent urge to talk about politics and change society for what they think is better.
Causes
There are numerous causes for radicalisation. Generally radicalisation stems from an irreversible loss of trust in the society the radical lives in.
Psychological Effects
Radicalisation has both positive and negative psychological effects.
Positive Effects
- Radicalisation can provide a greater sense of purpose to someone's life
- Radicalisation can increase self-esteem and reduce anxiety and depression
- Radicalisation can provide a supportive community
Negative Effects
- People with radical beliefs are more prone to black and white thinking than moderates
- Creation of an us vs. them mentality that can lead to intolerance and dehumanisation