It’s a very odd comparison! No doubt about that. As I happen to be a nicotine addict, it’s easy to make a comparison against.

Addiction is a strong force and it’s almost primal feeling. I would imagine that a craving for a cigarette is very similar to how a superfan can go into a state of psychosis trying to grab a lock of hair or a bit of their idols clothing.

Referring to my Disney example specifically, people may feel more deeply connected to their idols at a family-like level. This could drive a much wider swath of emotions, I would imagine.

There are many things I would never do for a cigarette, but for family, the tables are turned significantly.