How Society Quells Nonconformity and Dissent

My Journey Through the 'Spiral of Silence'

I often benefit from the knowledge of my dear wife, as she dives deep into social theories in her PhD program. She recently shared a potent concept known as the "spiral of silence." Crafted by German political scientist Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann in the 1970s, this theory delves into the intricate web of nonconformity, fear, and isolation that silences dissent in society.

At its core lies the notion of "public opinion," encapsulating the prevailing beliefs, attitudes, and values that the majority holds dear on specific issues. The theory holds that innate "fear of isolation" is a primary factor in driving public opinion. Individuals find themselves terrified of being cast out should they dare to challenge the prevailing narrative. Mass Media plays a major role in influencing the perception of what the dominant beliefs are.

A Story That Feels All Too Familiar

On some level, the above theory makes sense. My own odyssey experiencing this dynamic commenced during a tumultuous childhood marked by incessant conflicts. Among my peers, particularly the males, verbal and physical aggression were quite often the norm. To belong, one had to adhere rigidly to the accepted toxicity, and deviation meant ridicule and bullying.

I was bestowed with a father educated in moral philosophy and a career in legal scholarship. His teachings to his children, rooted in ideals like turning the other cheek, the Golden Rule, and the notion of 'killing with kindness,' primed me with convictions that often seemed incompatible with the toxically masculine world I inhabited.

I had friends who, in one-on-one settings, were amicable companions, but when amidst others or at school, underwent astonishing transformations. I estimate it was fear of isolation that compelled them to conceal their genuine sentiments about me in front of the group. My upbringing, however, rendered conformity borne of fear an unacceptable proposition, and hence, isolation became my intimate companion.

One friend stands out in my recollections, a fascinating case. Upon his arrival in our town, our paths immediately crossed, united by our shared affiliation with both our church and school. The weight of isolation had already long been pressing upon my shoulders. He demonstrated admirable courage by defending me against a bully's onslaught. However, after a six months leave for my father's sabbatical, my return took our friendship on an unexpected path. In my absence he had succumbed to the pressures of conformity, and my resurgence into his life posed a threat to his newfound alignment with the crowd. I soon became the target of his ridicule. Then a physical altercation caused our parents to intervene. I’m not sure what they said to him, but a switch flipped. We had a long close relationship after that. Perhaps in truth he had nothing to fear of isolation. Indeed his acceptance of me seemed to promote further acceptance from others.

Then, there was a pivotal moment when a formidable peer from the grade below decided to join the ranks of bullies who had long tormented me. He shoved me and made a demeaning remark in front of all his friends. I suppose having younger peers join in this parade of my bullies was a line I was not willing to be breached. Perhaps I had had enough. I never went after anyone with aggression. I detest violence. But something welled up inside me and I deliver a resounding punch to his face. He fell back and coward quickly. His group bothered me no more.

The resolution of another significant rivalry of my youth by means of physical altercation marked a turning point as I entered high school. With bullying waning, so did my isolation. To extricate myself from that abyss, I, however, embarked on a journey of conformity, a harrowing descent into the depths of peer pressure.

Yet, the yearning to break free from the shackles of conformity eventually triumphed, as my penchant for nonconformity and enigma resurfaced. I came into my late 20s wanting to change the world. I found myself drawn into electoral politics and issue advocacy, working alongside campaigns and nonprofits. Half a decade later, I ventured out on my own and started a business catering to clients from within this sphere.

Though I harbored genuine beliefs in parts of this world, I found myself having to think carefully about who I might offend by expressing opinions on controversial topics. I couldn’t offend the power brokers sending me business, right?

There cam moment when I just could not withhold my voice in dissent against the party's status quo. Isolation descended swiftly. My vocal opposition to large-scale solar projects and expansive Mojave Desert development drew the ire of those in power who rely on the contributions of real estate developers and big energy corporations. The outcome was stark: the financial might of these corporate dollars far outweighed my creative contributions, and my dissent led to isolation once again.

Many of my friends silently agreed with me but dared not speak out, knowing the perils of my path. How effective, this spiral of silence.

All was not lost. I traversed beyond that social circle, forging a new career path. Moreover, I discovered kindred spirits—fellow nonconformists—and this platform to shatter the silence. In truth, there are a lot more of us out there.

Pluralistic Ignorance

Noelle-Neumann furthered her theory by positing that individuals can erroneously perceive their dissenting views as belonging to the minority, when, in reality, they may not. Mass media plays a pivotal role in perpetuating norms that reinforce the spiral of silence. Our nonconforming views may not be as isolated as we believe them to be.

This realization underscores the importance of our dissenting voices. We provide a sanctuary where people can express their authentic feelings without fear. We lead by example, nurture critical thinking, and gradually expose minds to diverse ideas.

I have determined I must not succumb to fear lest I perpetuate the spiral of silence and become complicit in its horrible outcomes. What is happening to our planet, to wildlife and ecosystems, and the horrors happening to people all are too important to be silent about.

Punching Back

My journey through isolation has taught me that silence rarely serves as a remedy for abuse. Abusers are rarely swayed by kindness. History attests that successful social movements, including those led by Gandhi and MLK, relied on tactics beyond mere kindness or nonviolent resistance.

With abusers, the options are clear: break free or punch back. As a young person facing verbal and physical abuse, I had little choice about my proximity and no one was coming to save me. School officials routinely dismissed my reports. While I acknowledge the immense challenges faced by those trapped in abusive relationships, silence seldom curbs abuse. Sometimes it takes a solid punch. Sometimes it takes more than that.

The dominant narrative in this society is that we don’t have the right to punch back against our collective abusers. This simply isn’t true. This is something we have to stop being silent about as well. We have the right to defend ourselves.

I don’t seek to glorify violence or promote aggression and toxic behavior. I just can’t remain silent about the fact that we have the right to stop those abusing people and planet.

As always, thanks for your help breaking the silence. We need to help each other pierce the spiral by lifting up voices who dare to challenge the status quo. I feel like we are a small part of that right here on Collapse Curriculum.