Fanatics

Fanatics

Millions now debate over the internet.  So many arguments; over religion, politics, marriage, abortion and the rights of animals and as well I am sure many more subjects that I can’t even begin to imagine.  The problem with this is that after a while, the arguments get into a seeming repetitive cycle and eventually they take on a form of their own.  It is easy to see in the ‘rantings’ of an opponent, but perhaps not see the same thing from those who belong to our group.  It is a wonder how many seem to think that all they have to do is show contempt or disdain towards those who think differently and it will make some kind of a difference.   Within any group there will be fanatics, though those who are will not see it.  For labels like ‘fanatic’, ‘irrational’, ‘brainwashed’, or something that is placed on an opponent, is not a designation that anyone will wear by choice.  Fanatics from any group sound alike, perhaps they share some sort of psychological profile.  Eric Hoffa wrote a book titled “The true believer” and I think it is a book that does not get enough attention, the attention that it deserves.  He states that a fanatical communist if he becomes a Christian will still stay a fanatic, one who can’t stand that others do not see the world the way he or she does.  When in fact, I am not sure anyone sees the world the same, even if they profess the same philosophy of life or religion.  Perhaps we all have a bit of it in ourselves, but for some it comes full blown and noxious in its fruit…. for in the long run all they get back is frustration because no one outside of their group will listen to them.  Or if someone does, it is just a fanatic switching sides.