John Cleese on the Psychology of Extremism

This video features a clip of actor and comedian John Cleese discussing the psychological appeal of extremism. In the footage, Cleese suggests that the primary advantage of adopting an extremist viewpoint is that it provides a sense of personal satisfaction. He argues that by identifying an enemy, individuals can convince themselves of their own inherent goodness, which in turn justifies abusive behavior toward others while maintaining a facade of being rational and courteous. The clip is presented as a long-standing observation on human behavior and political polarization.

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camillebernard10NewcomerSep 14, 2026

This video is going to rustle some jimmies

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emre.kayaNewcomerSep 14, 2026

Traitors are the problem. the enemy isn't as big of a problem as all pre approved media messaging makes them out to be

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carlos_moralesNewcomerSep 14, 2026

I enjoy very much abusing people

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santos.markNewcomerSep 14, 2026

Whatever he says, Russia is an actual enemy, invading our Ukrainian bros. I guess, right is right again?

noahwilliams26NewcomerSep 14, 2026

Funny how he didnt even think about millions of foreigners replacing their people.

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bondarenko.katerynaNewcomerSep 14, 2026

Ok fair enough... I get all that... But could someone please explain this to me?

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the_giuliaNewcomerSep 14, 2026

us moderates :

karim_7xNewcomerSep 14, 2026

Predicted? You think this didn't happen before?

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realmehmetNewcomerSep 14, 2026

As someone who considers himself a moderate... yeah, pretty accurate. I'm on whichever side I fall on each particular issue, so if I'm left-leaning the right wingers hate me, and if I'm right-leaning the left wingers hate me. And if I say "I don't think we have enough information

realmateoNewcomerSep 14, 2026

The irony of some of the comments