How do cults hold on to their disciples? How do the Marines command such loyalty? Why do Jesuit priests submit to a lifetime of strict authority? This film explains how long-term conditioning takes place and shows that the indoctrination methods of disparate institutions are surprisingly similar. Recruits are isolated and worked to exhaustion. Confused and frightened, they readily submit to a leader, be it guru, fuhrer or sergeant.

The film shows how the power of suggestion influences behavior. Hypnosis, for example, may lead to short-term change; other psychotherapies may alter behavior for an extended time. Captive Minds reminds us that we are all vulnerable to psychological manipulation.