Mical Hutson

Fundamentalists—whether political or religious—aren’t driven by logic, but by identity, authority, and fear. Authoritarianism thrives because it offers certainty and belonging. That’s why facts don’t break through. It’s not about truth—it’s about what feels safe and keeps them in their tribe.

People also sense fundamentalism in us, just like we sense it in them. If we want them to listen, we have to be careful, measured, and willing to check our own blind spots. We don’t have to embrace false balance, but we do have to show we’re thinking critically, not just reacting.

I’ve been thinking about your question. It’s so hard—wanting a better space but also knowing FB is where we reach people. Fundamentalists don’t respond to logic; their beliefs are identity-based. Maybe the goal is planting seeds, modeling thoughtfulness, and knowing when to step back.