Purges, or cleansing, refer to the systematic removal of individuals or groups deemed undesirable within a political or social context. This practice often occurs in authoritarian regimes, where leaders eliminate opposition to consolidate power. Historical examples include the Great Purge in the Soviet Union under Joseph Stalin, which targeted perceived enemies of the state. Cleansing can also apply to organizations or communities, where members may be expelled for various reasons, such as misconduct or ideological differences. This process can create a sense of unity among remaining members but often leads to fear and mistrust within the group.