If a friend reveals they think a group of people are brainwashed (but doesn't know you're in that group), how would you respond?

[CheeseMonster]

Would you. . .

• Go along with it and pretend to agree to avoid a confrontation?
• Stay quiet and not do anything at all?
• Confront them about it, but try to keep it hidden that you are personally involved?
• Tell them flat out that you are one of those people and force them to backtrack or confront you about it?
• Walk away and/or cut contact with them immediately with no explanation?

Go along with it

Stay quiet

Confront them (neutrally)

Tell them your position

Walk away / cut contact

I don't know / other

[NewsReader]

First, ask them why they think that. Then tell them what I think. See if there is something we can agree on. Would I tell them that I am part of the group? That depends on multiple factors. It's not an easy decision.

[sunflower00]

I would probably ask why they think that, and explain that I am part of that group and then have a calm, respectful conversation about it. Brainwashed people aren’t really aware they are brainwashed

[Jamie05rhs]

Well, if you're brainwashed, you obviously wouldn't know that you're brainwashed. Lol.
Maybe you should hear him out.

[CheeseMonster]

Agreed. As long as you're both willing to honestly engage, then at least a little knowledge will be gained by at least one of you.

[Jamie05rhs]

Right! :)