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About this quote

What does it mean?
Fanaticism stems from a desperate need for certainty and purpose rather than genuine belief in a cause.
In plain terms
Fanatics cling to causes because they need something to hold onto, not because the cause is right.
What can you take from it?
Be wary of extreme commitment driven by insecurity rather than principle.

Where it applies

  • political extremism
  • religious zealotry
  • organizational loyalty

Putting it to work

  • question absolute truths
  • cultivate tolerance
  • understand root fears

Questions to consider

  • What gives you a sense of purpose?
  • How do you handle uncertainty?

Another view

Strong conviction can also arise from deeply held ethical values.

More from Eric Hoffer

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  3. The devil personifies not the nature that is around us but the nature that is within us - the infinitely ferocious and cunning prehuman creature that is still …

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