Salem witch trials help explain why Faithfuls fail to spot real Traitors, says David Olusoga
David Olusoga discusses how historical events like the Salem witch trials illustrate the challenges Faithfuls face in identifying Traitors on the show Celebrity Traitors. He highlights the rapid progression from suspicion to conviction, emphasizing the role of confident voices in spreading rumors. The panel at the Hay festival explored the psychological dynamics at play in both historical contexts and the game show.
- ▪David Olusoga suggests that historical events help explain why Faithfuls struggle to identify Traitors.
- ▪He notes the frightening speed at which suspicion can turn into conviction during the game.
- ▪Olusoga compares the dynamics of the show to historical events like the Salem witch trials and Stalin's Russia.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Broadcaster and historian David Olusoga says: ‘We didn’t make great defence cases, we didn’t stand up and go, ‘This is ridiculous, can’t you see? I’m obviously a Faithful’.’ Photograph: Karen Robinson/The ObserverView image in fullscreenBroadcaster and historian David Olusoga says: ‘We didn’t make great defence cases, we didn’t stand up and go, ‘This is ridiculous, can’t you see? I’m obviously a Faithful’.’ Photograph: Karen Robinson/The ObserverThe TraitorsSalem witch trials help explain why Faithfuls fail to spot real Traitors, says David OlusogaHistorical events like Spanish Inquisition show the ‘velocity’ at which rumours move to conviction, says Celebrity Traitors contestantElla CreamerTue 26 May 2026 14.06 EDTLast modified on Tue 26 May 2026 14.13 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — UK.
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