The root psychological afflictions (ignorance, ego, attachment, aversion, fear of death) that fuel polarization, tribalism, and destructive political behavior at individual and collective levels.
Patanjali's five kleshas—avidya (ignorance), asmita (ego-identification), raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), and abhinivesha (fear of annihilation)—provide a sophisticated map of political dysfunction. Political polarization is not merely disagreement about policy; it emerges from deeper psychological afflictions. Avidya manifests as citizens unable to see beyond their ideological framework; asmita as politicians whose identity fuses with party or ideology; raga as desperate clinging to threatened status; dvesha as visceral rejection of opposing groups; abhinivesha as existential panic that opponents threaten civilization itself. Understanding kleshas transforms political discourse from surface-level argument to deep psychological intervention. A political psychologist recognizing that an opponent acts from fear of annihilation rather than malice can respond with compassion while maintaining clear boundaries. Collective political movements driven by kleshas become destructive; those addressing the root afflictions become transformative. This framework explains why political education alone fails—it addresses ignorance (avidya) but not ego, fear, or attachment driving actual behavior.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
Explore related journeys or tell Peri what you're working through.