Avri Gilad Responds to 'Cult of Bibi' Controversy
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
Media personality Avri Gilad detailed ten characteristics of political cults in response to backlash over his comments on the "Cult of Bibi." His list includes leader infallibility, information control, and branding criticism as betrayal. Gilad clarified that not all supporters of Benjamin Netanyahu belong to such a cult, stating he respects their choices despite potential disagreement.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Avri Gilad outlined ten characteristics of political cults following controversy over his "Cult of Bibi" remarks.
- He stated that cults feature leader infallibility and information control, creating a parallel reality.
- Criticism from within or outside a cult is labeled as betrayal or leftism, according to Gilad.
- Gilad clarified that not all Benjamin Netanyahu voters are part of a cult.
- He acknowledged respecting the choices of those who support Netanyahu after weighing data.
Media personality Avri Gilad has published a detailed post outlining ten characteristics he attributes to political cults, inviting the public to consider if they reflect the current reality. This follows a public outcry and numerous reactions to his earlier remarks on Itay Segal's podcast concerning the phenomenon of the 'Cult of Bibi.'
Gilad's list of characteristics includes the belief that the leader is infallible and possesses absolute moral immunity, tight control over information creating a parallel reality through dedicated media channels, and the labeling of any internal or external criticism as betrayal or 'leftism.' He also noted the prioritization of maintaining power over the public interest, frequent shifts in stance to align with the leader's words, and the portrayal of the world as a stark division between good and evil, where political opponents are deemed enemies. Gilad humorously referenced this point by sending 'greetings from Mansour Abbas.'
Further characteristics mentioned by Gilad include a constant sense of collective persecution used to foster cohesion, the use of internal jargon and empty slogans that discourage deep thought, social punishment and ridicule for those who leave the group, and the leader becoming the central focus while the ideology itself diminishes to preserve their power.
Concluding his initial post before Shabbat, Gilad stated he would stop there and wished the public a "Shabbat of freedom from all foreign influence, from all artificial chains." However, in response to the significant backlash, Gilad added a clarification. He emphasized that not everyone who votes for Benjamin Netanyahu is part of a cult, acknowledging that many weigh the data and conclude it is the best choice. While he may disagree with that choice, he stated he respects it.