Brainwashing from Cold War Mind Control to 21st-Century Hyper Persuasion

Webinar Details

Since the Cold War, the idea of “brainwashing” has shaped public debates about propaganda, coercion, ideology, and persuasion. While the concept is often associated with dramatic historical events or extremist groups, the study of persuasive environments and informational milieus raises broader questions about how individuals are influenced by institutions, media, and everyday information systems.

This webinar traces the history of brainwashing from the twentieth century to contemporary forms of persuasion, examining historical case studies alongside current questions about media, technology, and social influence. Participants will explore the role of trauma, political conflict, and information environments in shaping human behavior while considering what distinguishes contemporary forms of persuasion from earlier historical examples. Educators will gain new perspectives and discussion strategies for helping students critically examine persuasion, media, and civic decision-making.

Instructor: Rebecca Lemov, Professor of the History of Science, Harvard University