Socio-Cultural Strategy

Socio-Cultural Strategy

Identifying the Hidden Consequences of Mind Engineering on Social Thoughts and Behaviors

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Post-doctorate in science and technology policy - Department of Management, Economics and Progress Engineering - Iran University of Science & Technology (IUST)
10.22034/scs.2025.525478.1699
Abstract
Mind engineering, as an interdisciplinary approach, draws on findings from cognitive science, psychology, and neuroscience to explore the mechanisms of the human brain and mind. Through soft technologies such as media, it seeks to influence individuals' thoughts, attitudes, and social behaviors. The significance of this subject in today's world lies in the fact that both the explicit and hidden consequences of mind engineering can leave profound impacts on the cultural, political, and social structures of societies. The present study aims to identify and categorize the hidden consequences of mind engineering on social thoughts and behaviors, while also providing an analytical framework for understanding and managing these consequences at both individual and collective levels. To achieve this goal, research data were collected through content analysis of specialized texts and academic sources. These data were subsequently coded and categorized using thematic analysis, and the main themes were extracted and validated through reliability and validity checks. The findings include 54 organizing themes and 8 overarching themes. These themes reveal the hidden consequences of mind engineering in areas such as belief formation, belief change, behavioral modification, influence, resistance to influence, legitimization of political systems, shaping public opinion, and fostering social consensus. The results indicate that mind engineering plays a decisive role in shaping attitudes and social decision-making. Accordingly, this study not only enriches the theoretical understanding of mind engineering but also provides practical recommendations for its responsible application in policymaking.
Keywords
Subjects

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  • Receive Date 22 May 2025
  • Revise Date 02 September 2025
  • Accept Date 20 September 2025