As intriguing as the OP's question is, the inverse is just as interesting and particularly relevant to those of us with loved ones still in the JW cult:
Why do rational people fail to see conspiracies and corruption when the evidence is overwhelming and right in front to them?
The same mechanisms apply:
- Confirmation bias
- Vulnerability
- Confusion
- Loss of security
- A challenged world view with resultant fear and anxiety
- Desire to preserve our present beliefs
-
Most people simply do not have what it takes to be sincere and open-minded enough to objectively look at the conflicting evidence and then make up their own minds about what reality is.
If you ever hear someone say, "I refuse to believe .... [fill in the blank]," then you can be pretty sure that the evidence coming their way is more than their fragile psyche can presently handle.
It is the first responsibility of every citizen to question authority. - Benjamin Franklin
Denial. It ain't a river in Egypt!