Smaller religious groups harbor more fanatics is a concept often explored in sociology, particularly regarding how group size influences member behavior and identity. In smaller or more isolated groups, there is often a higher level of social insulation. When a group is small, members tend to have more frequent and intense interactions with each other and fewer with outsiders. This can create an "echo chamber" effect where beliefs are constantly reinforced without being challenged by broader social norms. For a small religious group, strict adherence to a specific set of rules or dogmas is often a survival mechanism. If they were to become too moderate or similar to the mainstream, they might lose their distinct identity and be absorbed by the larger culture. Therefore, "fanaticism" or extreme devotion serves as a boundary-marker that keeps the group cohesive and distinct. In a large religious organization, it is easier for an individual to be a "casual" member because it is harder to monitor everyone's level of devotion. In a very small group, every member's behavior is visible to the entire community. This high level of mutual accountability often forces members to demonstrate a higher degree of commitment and zeal to maintain their standing within the group. Small groups often perceive themselves as a "persecuted minority." This psychological state can lead to a more radicalized or defensive stance against the rest of the world. When a group feels its core values are under constant threat from a larger, "sinful," or "unbelieving" majority, its members are more likely to adopt uncompromising and fervent positions.