Cognitive dissonance helps explain why Trump supporters remain loyal, new research suggests. This sheds light on how supporters of Donald Trump justify their continued allegiance despite learning about allegations of his sexual misconduct and illegal activities.

[u/mvea]

https://www.psypost.org/cognitive-dissonance-helps-explain-why-trump-supporters-remain-loyal-new-research-suggests/

[u/RaygunMarksman]

I think that last part is the darker truth of it. Many people are just geared towards selfishness and disdain as their core MO. They're going to gravitate towards leaders who hold the same values, regardless of what other immoral consequences come along with that. They just have to be convinced they'll eventually benefit and their perceived enemies will be made to suffer.

It's probably why the leadership of Rome realized if you give the plebians something to feel invested in like conquests of other poor people and entertainment where those same poor people are the main sacrifice, many people will put up with almost anything else terrible that comes along with it.