indoctrination

Here are some insights from Dwarkesh Patel's discussions on indoctrination:

1. Sympathy for Mao: In his conversation with author Jung Chang, Patel explores how individuals like Xi Jinping, who experienced purges and denunciations in Maoist China, might still retain sympathy for Marxist-Leninist ideals. Jung Chang notes that indoctrination played a key role, as even those who suffered under the regime often remained loyal to the Communist Party and benefited from its rule 1.

2. Questioning Mao's Rule: Jung Chang also shares her personal experiences of intense brainwashing in Maoist China, where Mao was revered almost like a deity. Questioning Mao was dangerous, and the society's isolation from outside information and pervasive terror ensured compliance and suppressed dissenting thoughts 2.

3. Coercion in Education: Sarah Fitz-Claridge and Patel discuss the coercion in educational systems, particularly in learning mathematics. Fitz-Claridge argues that coercion is unnecessary and counterproductive, suggesting that natural curiosity and interest should drive learning rather than forced indoctrination 3.

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     1

     Sympathy for Mao?

     00:40:51
     
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     2

     Questioning Mao's Rule

     00:11:21
     
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     3

     Coercion in Mathematics Education

     00:20:54
     

These examples highlight how indoctrination and coercion can deeply affect individuals' beliefs and behaviors, often persisting despite adverse experiences.