They Once Believed—Then Walked Away: 15 People Who Abandoned Their Causes

Throughout history, numerous individuals have passionately championed significant causes, only to later distance themselves from them. These journeys of disillusionment, personal transformation, or changing circumstances challenge the notion of unwavering convictions and shed light on the complexities inherent in belief and activism.

1. Elizabeth Farren: From Stage Stardom to Aristocratic Life

Elizabeth Farren, a renowned 18th-century English actress, made a surprising exit from the theater after marrying the Earl of Derby. This shift from the stage to aristocratic society was unexpected and underscored the allure and challenges of adopting new identities. For a detailed account of her life change, refer to The British Library’s biography.

2. Daryl Davis: From Klan Engagement to Antiracism

Musician and activist Daryl Davis spent years befriending Ku Klux Klan members, ultimately leading dozens to renounce their affiliation. Davis’s dedication to dialogue transformed his mission, moving from understanding hate to actively dismantling it. NPR details his journey and the individuals who walked away with him. (npr.org)

3. Meghan Phelps-Roper: Breaking from Westboro Baptist Church

Meghan Phelps-Roper, once a prominent spokesperson for the Westboro Baptist Church, left the organization after engaging with outsiders on Twitter. Her departure challenged her family bonds and beliefs, redirecting her passion toward reconciliation and anti-hate activism. Her TED Talk and The New Yorker profile recount the profound shift in her worldview. (newyorker.com)

4. Frank Serpico: From Police Officer to Whistleblower

Frank Serpico, a former New York City Police Department detective, exposed widespread corruption within the force in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His courageous actions led to significant reforms but also personal sacrifices, including a life-threatening injury during a drug arrest. In 2022, over 50 years later, the NYPD officially recognized his bravery with a medal and certificate. For more on his legacy, see the Associated Press’s coverage. (apnews.com)

5. Ayaan Hirsi Ali: Leaving Political Islam Behind

Raised in a devout Muslim family, Ayaan Hirsi Ali initially championed political Islam. However, after the 9/11 attacks, she began questioning her beliefs, leading her to renounce Islam and advocate for women’s rights and secularism. Her journey from supporter to outspoken critic is documented in her bestselling memoir, “Infidel,” and further explored in her subsequent book, “Nomad.” The Guardian provides an in-depth look at her transformation and the challenges she faced. (theguardian.com)

6. Jerry Falwell Jr.: Shifting from Evangelical Leadership

Jerry Falwell Jr., once a prominent leader of Liberty University and the Religious Right, resigned amid scandal and ideological disagreements. His departure marked a significant shift in evangelical leadership. Politico provides a detailed account of his resignation. (politico.com)

7. Artur Pawlowski: From Anti-Lockdown Hero to Doubter

Canadian pastor Artur Pawlowski gained international attention by vehemently opposing COVID-19 restrictions. However, after facing legal consequences and community backlash, he began to reconsider his approach, distancing himself from his earlier rhetoric. For more on his shifting stance, refer to coverage by CBC. (cbc.ca)

8. Doris Lessing: Abandoning Communism

Nobel Prize-winning author Doris Lessing was once an ardent communist, even supporting revolutionary causes in South Africa. Disillusioned by oppressive practices, she renounced communism and chronicled her intellectual journey in her autobiography, as highlighted by The New York Review of Books. (newyorker.com)

9. John Walker Lindh: Rejecting Extremism

John Walker Lindh, known as the ‘American Taliban,’ was captured in Afghanistan in 2001 for supporting al-Qaeda. After serving 17 years in prison, he was released in 2019. During his incarceration, Lindh expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “I have never supported terrorism in any form, and I never will.” (washingtonpost.com) His journey from radicalism to renunciation highlights the complexities of indoctrination and the potential for redemption. The Washington Post provides an in-depth exploration of his transformation.

10. Leah Remini: Exposing Scientology

Actress Leah Remini spent decades in the Church of Scientology before leaving and becoming one of its most vocal critics. Her memoir and Emmy-winning series exposed controversial practices, encouraging others to break away. Rolling Stone details her departure and the impact on the organization. (rollingstone.com)

11. Brendan Eich: From Mozilla Pioneer to Tech Outsider

Brendan Eich, co-founder of Mozilla and creator of JavaScript, faced controversy over a 2008 donation supporting California’s Proposition 8, which sought to ban same-sex marriage. This led to his resignation as CEO in 2014. Subsequently, Eich co-founded Brave Software, focusing on privacy-centric web browsing. The Verge chronicles his professional pivot. (newyorker.com)

12. Jessica Ahlquist: From Church-State Activism to Reticence

As a teenager, Jessica Ahlquist challenged a religious banner in her public school, leading to a landmark lawsuit that resulted in its removal. The ensuing backlash, including threats and harassment, prompted her to withdraw from public activism. Her experience underscores the personal toll of advocacy and the complexities of standing up for constitutional principles. For more on her journey, see ABC News.

13. Joshua Wong: Hong Kong Protest Leader’s Changed Approach

Once a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s pro-democracy movement, Joshua Wong has had to adapt his activism in response to increasing political repression. Facing legal challenges and a more restrictive environment, he has shifted from open protests to more discreet forms of resistance. This evolution reflects the broader challenges faced by activists under intensified scrutiny. For a comprehensive analysis of his changing strategy, refer to The Atlantic’s coverage. (theatlantic.com)

14. Amaryllis Fox: From CIA Agent to Peace Advocate

Amaryllis Fox served as a CIA operative, engaging in covert operations to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. After eight years, she left the agency, disillusioned by the methods employed and seeking more peaceful solutions. Fox authored a memoir detailing her experiences, titled “Life Undercover: Coming of Age in the CIA,” and has since become an advocate for peace and conflict resolution. (amazon.com)

15. Bart Campolo: A Pastor’s Journey to Secular Humanism

Bart Campolo, son of renowned evangelical leader Tony Campolo, initially embraced Christianity, founding Mission Year, an urban ministry program. Over time, he began questioning his faith, leading to his transition to secular humanism in 2011. This shift was documented in his memoir, “Why I Left, Why I Stayed,” co-authored with his father, and in family dialogues featured in Religion News Service. (religionnews.com)

Conclusion

These complex personal journeys reveal how steadfast convictions can change, sometimes abruptly, as individuals reevaluate their beliefs in light of experience or new understanding. Their stories underscore the human capacity for critical thought and reinvention, challenging simplistic narratives about loyalty and belief.