What is Extremely Intense Ideology?

Extremely Intense Ideology is a mental model used for better thinking and decision-making.

How do you apply Extremely Intense Ideology?

To apply Extremely Intense Ideology, identify situations where this framework is relevant, then use it as a lens to evaluate your options and decisions. The model is most useful when combined with other complementary mental models.

What category does Extremely Intense Ideology fall under?

Extremely Intense Ideology falls under the Philosophy, Law & Politics category of mental models. Other models in this category can be found on the Philosophy, Law & Politics hub page.

Why is Extremely Intense Ideology important?

Extremely Intense Ideology is important because it provides a structured way to think about problems that would otherwise be approached with intuition alone. Understanding this model helps you avoid common reasoning errors and make better decisions.

Where does Extremely Intense Ideology come from?

Extremely Intense Ideology is discussed in the tradition of Charlie Munger.

Philosophy, Law & Politics

Extremely Intense Ideology

Model #0861Category: Philosophy, Law & PoliticsSource: Charlie MungerDepth to apply:

5 min read

Contents

1. Core Idea
2. How to See It
3. How to Use It
4. Founders & Leaders
5. Connected Models
6. One Key Quote
7. Summary & Further Reading

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Philosophy, Law & Politics

Section 1

Core Idea

Extremely intense ideology is the tendency for strongly held belief systems to distort thinking, override evidence, and make their adherents confidently wrong. Charlie Munger placed it among the most dangerous cognitive tendencies because ideology provides a complete framework for interpreting reality — once adopted, every new piece of information is filtered, distorted, or discarded to preserve the system. The danger isn't holding strong beliefs; it's holding beliefs so intensely that they become unfalsifiable. Ideological intensity creates a ratchet: each piece of confirming evidence strengthens conviction, while disconfirming evidence is reinterpreted as proof of opposition rather than grounds for updating. The result is a closed loop where the believer becomes more certain over time regardless of reality.