Psychology of Political Assassinations, Aftermath: Messianic Saviors (TalkTV with Trisha Goddard)

Would-be assassins of political figures engage in dichotomous thinking (splitting): evil vs. good. The politician is all evil, the assassin is on the side of good. It is a morality play.

The assassin’s thinking is apocalyptic (catastrophizing): the world as we know it will come to its end should the wicked politician have his/her way. There is a sense of urgency, helplessness, anxiety, even panic.

The assassin’s cognitive processes are distorted and his reality testing is impaired. He is grandiose (“Only I have the power and courage it takes to change the world and the course of history”).

Should the politician survive the assassination attempt, many of his followers and disciples are likely to regard it as a sign of divine protection and anointment.

When the assassination attempt succeeds, ensuing hagiography renders the politician an immaculate saint and a sacrificial lamb for the cause.

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