cult of personality

A cult of personality occurs when a public figure, often a political leader, uses mass media and propaganda to create an idealized and heroic image of themselves. This phenomenon often involves exaggerating their achievements and suppressing dissent to build a devoted following. Followers may idolize the leader, believing them to be infallible or endowed with extraordinary qualities. This manipulation can undermine democratic institutions and promote authoritarianism, as the leader prioritizes their image and power over transparency and accountability. Cults of personality are commonly seen in totalitarian regimes, where loyalty to the leader becomes more important than loyalty to the state or its values.