Extreme Beliefs Can Function as a Shibboleth

A shibboleth is a custom, principle, or belief that distinguishes a particular class or group of people, especially a long-standing one regarded as outmoded or no longer important. In a social context, it can be a word, phrase, or, importantly, a belief that acts as a password for in-group membership.

Outlandish and easily disprovable beliefs can be particularly effective shibboleths. The very absurdity of the claim is what makes it a powerful signal of one's commitment to the group.

How it Works:

• Costly Signal: Proclaiming a belief that is obviously false to outsiders is a costly social signal. It demonstrates that the individual's loyalty to the group is more important than their concern for factual accuracy or their reputation in mainstream society.
• Identity Advertising: It is a way of advertising one's identity and allegiance. You don't need faith to believe obvious things; professing belief in the impossible is a strong declaration of faith in the group's ideology.
• Proxy for Deeper Truths: The extreme belief may not be taken literally by all members, but can serve as a proxy or metaphor for a deeper, core grievance or value held by the group. For example, the belief that a school shooting was a "hoax" can be a proxy for the absolute belief in the right to bear arms, a belief so strong that it requires rejecting any reality that might threaten it.

This mechanism acts as a social accelerator, pushing groups toward more extreme and reality-detached positions as a way to continually test and affirm group loyalty.

Tags: #sociology #psychology #social-psychology #shibboleth #in-group #identity #belief #costly-signaling