Vice Essentials Season 1 Episode 13 Brainwashed by Westboro Baptist Church

In season 1, episode 13 of Vice Essentials, titled "Brainwashed by Westboro Baptist Church," viewers are taken into the heart of the infamous religious hate group known as the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC). The episode explores how this small, Kansas-based church became known for its extreme views and controversial protests, which include picketing funerals and spewing hateful rhetoric towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Throughout the episode, Vice journalist and host Thomas Morton interviews current and former members of the church, attempting to understand what motivates them to propagate such intense hatred and bigotry. Morton delves into the twisted belief system of the WBC, which is based on their interpretation of the Bible and their belief that God is punishing America for its tolerance of homosexuality.

One of the most gripping aspects of the episode is its exploration of how the church members become brainwashed by the group's harsh teachings. Morton speaks with individuals who left the WBC after years of indoctrination and psychological manipulation, describing how their entire worldview was warped by the church's leaders. He also delves into the experiences of those who were born into the church and raised within its confines, ultimately becoming unable to discern fact from fiction when it comes to the church's teachings.

Throughout his interviews, Morton remains compassionate and empathetic towards the individuals he speaks with, even when they espouse abhorrent beliefs. At the same time, he never shies away from calling out the WBC's damaging and hateful practices, highlighting the devastating impact their actions have on the communities they target.

Overall, "Brainwashed by Westboro Baptist Church" is a thought-provoking and sobering episode that offers a unique glimpse into one of the most controversial and contentious religious groups in modern history. Through Morton's interviews with members and former members, viewers can begin to understand how a group like the WBC can take hold and thrive, even when its rhetoric is so widely reviled.