Theory of Controlled Dissimulation on the Internet

A specific application of controlled dissimulation theory to online spaces, particularly religious and political forums. It explains why some individuals—often neo‑atheists or ideologically motivated actors—pretend to be members of a religious or spiritual community they secretly oppose. Their goal is not genuine participation but gradual erosion: they use psychiatric gaslighting, digitallighting, and other manipulation tactics to make sincere believers doubt themselves, leave their faith, or discredit the community from within. The theory highlights how anonymity, lack of accountability, and the affordances of digital platforms make this tactic especially effective. It also explains why some online spaces feel eerily hostile to authentic belief.

Theory of Controlled Dissimulation on the Internet Example: “The moderator discovered that a long‑time ‘seeker’ in the spirituality group was actually a neo‑atheist running a controlled dissimulation campaign—pretending to ask innocent questions while systematically deploying digitallighting to make members feel crazy for having faith.”

Theory of Controlled Dissimulation on the Internet by Dumu The Void April 19, 2026