Psyop



A PSYOP, or psychological operation, is an incredibly effective way of acquiring power. PSYOPs are generally developed and carried out by intelligence agencies. The goal can be to demoralize the target or destroy bonds within a group, or to isolate/alienate the target. In a domestic scenario, psyop tactics would be considered a form of domestic abuse (gaslighting, manipulating, verbal abuse) and similarly, when attacks against the psyche are made in a political organization, it often becomes labelled as a cult.

In religious contexts, PSYOPs take two roles: to build "faith" / "trust" within the group (positive psyop) and to attack the out-group (negative psyop). Within the context of Christianity, a "positive" psyop is reminding the believer that Christ is always with them, loves them forever, is watching over them, is building his family's house in heaven, etc etc. Negative psyop come like "you are a sinner, you need Christ or you will burn in hell" or labeling the competing forces as being in league with Satan (e.g., Gnosticism, LSD, science, psychology et al). This is exactly the same as the "good cop, bad cop" routine used regularly by law enforcement. (Consider how much of law enforcement really revolves around psychological games.)

What is the relevance of PSYOP to cult-making? Simply that effective use of PSYOP tactics breed loyalty (retention) and motivation induction.

See also: tradecraft

Glossary

 * White PSYOP : The propaganda has a clear and identifiable source.
 * Gray PSYOP : The source of the propaganda is unclear.
 * Black PSYOP : The source of the propaganda is mislabeled as coming from the opposition. ("fake news")
 * False flag : When an act of terrorism is committed and made to appear as if another party were responsible.
 * Disinfo : Lies to attack the image / credibility of the target

Gallery
A set of images relating to PSYOP including government patches, especially those with esoteric implications