Definition

1. Verb:
   • To teach a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically, without allowing them to question or consider other viewpoints. This often involves repeated instruction to instill specific doctrines, principles, or ideologies.

Usage and Examples

• Verb:
  • The cult leader sought to indoctrinate new members with his extreme views.
  • Some regimes use the education system to indoctrinate children with political propaganda.
  • It is important to educate students to think critically, not to indoctrinate them.

Advanced Usage and Nuances

• "to indoctrinate someone into something": To systematically teach someone the beliefs of a particular group or ideology.
  • He was indoctrinated into the organization's strict philosophy during the training camp.
• "to indoctrinate someone with something": To fill someone's mind with specific ideas or doctrines.
  • The army was accused of indoctrinating recruits with hatred.

Variants and Related Words

• Indoctrination (noun): The process of teaching a person or group to accept a set of beliefs uncritically.
  • The indoctrination of the youth was a key goal of the movement.
• Indoctrinated (adjective): Describing a person who has been taught to accept beliefs uncritically.
  • The indoctrinated followers refused to listen to any opposing arguments.

Synonyms

• Brainwash: To pressurize (someone) into adopting radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible means. (Implies a more intense, coercive process than ).
• Inculcate: To instill an attitude, idea, or habit by persistent instruction. (Can be neutral or positive, whereas is typically negative).
• Propagandize: To spread biased or misleading information to promote a political cause or point of view.

Antonyms

• Educate: To give intellectual, moral, and social instruction, typically encouraging critical thinking.
• Enlighten: To give greater knowledge and understanding about a subject or situation.

Related Phrases and Contexts

• The term is most commonly used in negative contexts involving political ideologies, religious cults, military training, or extremist groups where independent thought is discouraged.
• It implies a one-sided, non-interactive form of teaching aimed at creating conformity.

Verb

1. teach doctrines to; teach uncritically
   • The Moonies indoctrinate their disciples