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Not sure what OP means, but I would define "look at the science not the scientists" as assessing the evidence provided by different people who claim to have the truth, instead of trusting them because of their expertise. That pretty much insulates you against the "Charlie Manson has all the answers" problem (though today I think the twin evils of "Fauci/Neil Fergsuson is always right" and "Trump is the second coming" are much bigger problems).

Worth reading Freud's mass-psychology paper BTW. Gives a theory of how groups with charismatic leaders work, which is similar to hypnotic suggestion and falling in love. Leader is in parent role, this in turn lets the followers all be brothers/sisters with equality. Doesn't give much of an alternative though, except replacing the leader with a cause which plays the same role. IMO true anarchic groups are based on the energy at the core, not the self/other divide or leader-as-parent; affinity is a kind of channelling of cosmic energy into particular actions, and this action binds the group. Stirnerian theory is useful as a replacement for the superego, kinda like a Clastrean chief: it gives the moral commands some people look for, but the content of the commands, is follow your desire, act with will, don't submit to moral commands. Turns the superego function against itself.