There is something about human nature that makes us susceptible to hive mentality. Is it enough that we are social creatures?
I believe that we were created to have a relationship with God(as we understand Him/Her/It[giggle at the political correctness]), without which we are seeking to fill that void.
A common mistake is to feel the connection to a larger group fixes that. Ultimately being mislead by one or more human leaders not really qualified to lead at that ultimate level.
As far as the Hell comment. My definition of Hell is absence of God(insert above politically correct title if you feel triggered)(These political corrections are not aimed at you @mistermercury, I don't think you need them). So if the Pope was saying there is no specific place that is Hell, I would agree.