History offers numerous examples of mobism. During the French Revolution’s "Reign of Terror," mass hysteria led to the execution of thousands, including those merely suspected of opposing the revolution—despite the movement’s original commitment to liberty and justice. In the post-slavery American South, mob lynchings became a widespread practice, where public mobs took justice into their own hands, bypassing legal institutions and often targeting innocent individuals. In the modern era, mobism has found a new platform in social media, manifesting as "cancel culture," where public outrage, often fuelled by misinformation, leads to the social and professional destruction of individuals or organisations without due legal process.
Mobism is not only a challenge to governance but also a threat to the ethical framework of society. It fosters a culture where public perception and collective outrage dictate decisions instead of legal and constitutional principles. Politically, it is often exploited by populist leaders who manipulate public sentiment to weaken democratic institutions and consolidate power. A striking example is Nazi Germany, where Adolf Hitler harnessed mass discontent to dismantle democratic checks and establish a totalitarian regime through seemingly legitimate means.
In the wake of Bangladesh's recent regime change, the nation has witnessed a troubling rise in mobism, marked by widespread mob violence and vigilantism. The resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, 2024, created a security vacuum as law enforcement agencies withdrew, fearing retaliation from student-led movements. This collapse of authority precipitated a sharp increase in lawlessness. Within just five weeks of the regime change, at least 21 lynching incidents were reported across the country. One tragic example is the case of Tofazzal Hossain, a 35-year-old man with mental health challenges, who was brutally beaten to death by university students after being wrongly accused of theft. Such incidents highlight the alarming spread of mob justice. Meanwhile, the Hindu minority, historically aligned with the Awami League, has become a target of violence, with reports of looted homes and assaults on individuals. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, now confronts the daunting task of restoring law and order, addressing historical grievances, and curbing further mob-driven violence to safeguard the nation's stability.
To safeguard democracy, it is imperative to counter the spread of mobism. This requires fostering democratic values among citizens, strengthening the rule of law, and ensuring that media platforms act responsibly. Democracy is not merely majority rule—it is built upon dialogue, tolerance, and rational governance. Therefore, instead of yielding to impulsive public sentiment, policies and governance must be guided by law, reason, and ethical principles to ensure long-term democratic stability.
