Why Some Fanatical Christians Believe the World Revolves Around Them

Some fanatic Christians believe the entire world revolves around them for the same reasons that other fanatics point to only one race, religion, or political party as the source of their grievances. This belief is deeply rooted in a set of unquestioned assumptions prevalent among such individuals. This article explores this phenomenon through the lens of religious fanaticism and the psychological underpinnings that reinforce such beliefs.

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The attitude that the world revolves around the individual is not limited to the more liberal members of the Abrahamic faiths. In many cases, it is an explicitly embraced belief. Such individuals find it hard to accept that there might be other perspectives or paths to truth. Instead, they adhere to the notion that:

The superrational and omnipotent spirit that created the universe favors their specific group. Their group has a complete monopoly on morality. Their statements are always right and everyone else is either misled or evil.

It is fitting then, that Christians often feel a profound sense of mission and importance, believing that the world exists for their benefit. For them, the world revolves around them as an unofficial tenet of their faith.

The Indoctrination of Fanatic Faith

Part of the indoctrination of such individuals is the repeated affirmation that they are special and that God has a plan just for them. Through frequent preaching and social conditioning, they come to see themselves as the main focus of their faith, with the rest of the world existing only to support their narrative. This creates a self-centered worldview that is difficult to break, especially when reinforced by community and faith.

Sunday Potlucks and the Illusion of Importance

Religious gatherings, such as the Sunday potlucks that are prevalent in many Christian communities, can also contribute to this perceived sense of importance. These gatherings often create a visible and tangible sense of community, making attendees feel like they are a crucial part of a larger, meaningful social structure. Such events can be seen as an extension of the belief that the world revolves around them, as the community they are part of reinforces their importance.

The Psychological and Societal Implications

Religion plays a significant role in making people feel important, be it through their family, clan, tribe, or nation. It provides a framework of justification for superior status and a clear distinction between insiders and outsiders. Faith not only promises salvation and eternal life but also conveys a sense of moral superiority over non-believers. Consequently, to such individuals, everyone else is seen as the enemy. The world revolves around them, at least according to their belief system.

Ultimately, the Earth Is at the Center of the Universe

Interestingly, this belief that the world revolves around them is also reflected in how they perceive the universe. For them, information is most likely to be found in the center, which is naturally on Earth. This perspective reinforces their belief that they are central to the grand narrative of existence.

Conclusion

While these beliefs may seem extreme or misguided to outsiders, they are rooted in deep psychological and sociological phenomena. Understanding the underlying dynamics can help in engaging with such individuals in a more empathetic and constructive manner. The challenge lies in breaking down the barriers of this all-encompassing belief and encouraging them to see a broader and more inclusive perspective.

Key Takeaways:

Purpose and importance are magnified in the minds of fanatical Christians through repeated affirmations and social conditioning. Community gatherings like Sunday potlucks reinforce a sense of personal importance. Religion provides a framework for moral superiority and a sense of eternal life, leading individuals to view the world as revolving around them.