Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism by Amanda Montell
What's it about?
Forget mind control. In Cultish (2021), Amanda Montell exposes the verbal tricks that bind groups, from Heaven’s Gate to your Peloton Group. A fascinating look at how words shape beliefs and persuade us. Decode the language of domination and reclaim your power.
Introduction
What’s in it for me? Learn how cultish language shapes our beliefs and communities.
Language has shaped how we think and act since the dawn of time. It is a universal experience, as natural as breathing – yet the influence of rhetoric remains hidden in plain sight. This Blink will help explain this curious phenomenon, to show how words can both inspire and manipulate us.
Whether it’s the powerful pull of fitness communities like CrossFit, the cryptic draw of groups like Scientology, or the lure of multi-level marketing schemes, this blink exposes the core linguistic methods that bond people to these networks.
Discover the subtle yet powerful impact of language on your ideas and decisions, and equip yourself with the knowledge to control these influences in your daily life. This blink is more than just a study of classic cults; it is a mirror that reflects “cultish” characteristics in everyday connections, from business to politics and beyond.
Ready to learn how words shape worlds? Let’s begin.
Key idea 1
How words and surroundings shape belief
Have you ever considered how language can shape our beliefs? Let's look at this intriguing idea through the eyes of Tasha Samar and Alyssa Clarke.
Tasha, a first-generation Russian American Jew, found solace in the Healthy Happy Holy Organization (3HO) at thirteen. This Sikh-derived group, founded in the 1970s, offered more than just Kundalini yoga classes; it promised a compelling community with strict teachings. However, 3HO’s darker parts, such as psychological and sexual abuse, hinged on manipulative language, such as dubbing members who showed weakness “lizard brain.” Yogi Bhajan was skilled at transforming positive terminology into threatening concepts. People who tried to leave the group were threatened with violence, and there was even an unsolved murder.
Now, consider Alyssa Clarke’s experience. Moving to Los Angeles, she found herself immersed in the CrossFit culture. The attraction? A strong community vibe, complete with its own lingo and lifestyle. For Alyssa, CrossFit’s unique language and Paleo-diet culture create a near-religious devotion. CrossFit’s unique language fosters unity. Members train in a “box,” while instructors are called “coaches.” The goal is to shape members both inside and outside the gym, urging mantras like “Beast mode!” and “Everything is everything” (EIE). Sounds good, right?
Well, not always. One drawback to CrossFit is the risk of injury from the high-intensity workouts. It can also lead to overtraining and burnout. As with any fitness community or subculture, some people may get so obsessed with CrossFit that it takes over their lives; this is comparable to a cult. Both Tasha and Alyssa's accounts show that language, combined with community dynamics, is a formidable force. It can create solidarity, sure. However, it can also shape a polarizing mindset, steering behaviors in subtle yet profound ways.
Is CrossFit really a cult? It has similar characteristics. To determine whether something is a cult, we should define what the term “cult” means. It’s an emotive word that reflects our attitudes toward spirituality and certain types of communities. It may refer to a new religion, an online group, or even a beauty brand. A cult is typically defined as involving a strong devotion to a person, idea, or thing, as well as unorthodox beliefs or practices. While the term’s meaning varies, some cultish features can be detected in everyday situations. One thing is certain: language matters. Words have the power to alter our views, hide the truth, and affect our well-being. The force of cultish words goes beyond spiritual and fitness groups. It exists in both business and politics because all charismatic leaders use such language to instill common beliefs in, and exert control over, their followers.
Next, we will look at how this force manifests in notorious “suicide cults,” such as Jonestown.
Key idea 2
The lethal language of cult leaders
Have you ever heard the phrase “drinking the Kool-Aid”? I’m sure you have. But did you know this popular phrase has a horrible history? The term hails from a 1978 event known as the Jonestown Massacre, in which over 900 members of a sect called the People’s Temple drank cyanide-laced Flavor Aid, a Kool-Aid knock-off, in an act of mass suicide. Today, “drinking the Kool-aid” suggests deep, unwavering commitment to a group, religion, or cause, even when that devotion is clearly illogical or even dangerous. Reflecting on this bleak beginning, it’s reasonable to ask: What gives these leaders such compelling power?
Jim Jones and other cult leaders are not only charismatic, but also linguistic masters. They use language to create an us-versus-them mindset, making believers feel unique and set apart from the world. Jones would constantly adapt his words and dialect to the person he was talking to, making them feel understood and appreciated. He would use language and phrases that only Peoples Temple members understood, creating a sense of belonging and exclusivity. Cult leaders routinely do this, using loaded language and, as the author calls them, “thought-terminating clichés.” Such phrases provoke strong emotions and are designed to shut down critical thinking. One recent example is Qanon's “Trust the Plan.”
Other prominent verbal tactics used in cults include renaming and euphemism. Renaming signifies a member’s complete submission to the group. Both leaders and outsiders receive new titles, reinforcing the us-versus-them mentality. Euphemisms serve to soften the impact of uncomfortable or frightening concepts such as death, changing them into something less threatening or even aspirational. Through these linguistic sleights of hand, followers are subtly conditioned to accept and absorb specific views.
So, what’s the big takeaway here? We know that leaders can use language that is both seductive and dangerously influential. However, they achieve this via a combination of emotional manipulation and mental control, often leading followers down unexpected pathways.
As we move forward, let us turn our attention to problematic religions such as Scientology. This sect has sparked widespread debate. What makes them so controversial, and how do they compare to the cult dynamics we have just discussed? Stay tuned as we continue to explore this fascinating topic.
Key idea 3
Scientology: A masterclass in cult recruitment
Los Angeles, the city of dreams, is also home to the Church of Scientology. This organization promises spiritual enlightenment and success, but it also tempts its members with seductive jargon and a domineering culture.
It all starts with a personality test, but that is just the beginning in a world full of possibilities. Prospects like Cathy Schenkelberg are lured by the chance of breaking into the entertainment industry, thanks to high-profile endorsements from celebrities like Tom Cruise and John Travolta.
However, Scientology’s power does not lie solely in its promises; it’s deeply rooted in the tactics and language it employs. Termslike “enturbulated” and “Dev-T” form an insider’s lexicon. These specialized terms have a dual purpose: they build a sense of community while discreetly imposing controls on people like Cathy. Endless methods, including propaganda films and assessments, highlight recruits’ flaws. What is the answer? Why, Scientology, of course.
Scientology also uses terms like “suppressive person” (SP) and “potential trouble source” (PTS) to create a sense of exclusivity. Members must agree to follow a hierarchical path of enlightenment toward the elusive goal of “going clear.” This path is not only endless but also complex and very expensive, and traps subjects in a circle of constant investment. Members stay because their concerns are eclipsed by a feeling that they’ve already invested too much – financially, spiritually, and emotionally – to quit.
Scientology is more than just a religious movement; it is a masterclass in recruiting ambitious people who want to belong. Its organized path to spiritual growth traps followers in an endless cycle of devotion and investment, at exorbitant personal and financial cost.
Next, we will examine another model built on ambition and promises of success: multi-level marketing companies (MLMs). These businesses, each with its distinct model and controversial practices, offer yet another lens through which to examine cultish influence.
Key idea 4
Empowerment and exploitation in multi-level marketing
Imagine being offered financial freedom and entrepreneurship on a plate. This is the appeal of multi-level marketing (MLM), a domain bursting with promises of independence and empowerment. Renowned for their direct sales of beauty and wellness products, MLMs weave their way into our social networks, tempting us with the prospect of earning full-time income through part-time work. Yet as enticing as it sounds, the glittery facade often masks a different reality.
MLMs are particularly compelling to a specific group: stay-at-home wives and mothers. Terms like “boss babe” and “mompreneur” are not just marketing slogans; they are carefully crafted to resonate with those seeking a careful blend of career and family life. However, MLMs are fraught with complexities. While operating within legal limits, they tread a fine line between legitimate business practices and illegal pyramid schemes. What is the difference? MLMs should prioritize selling products above recruiting new sellers. However, this distinction is often ignored, leading to controversy and legal scrutiny.
Now, let’s hear the story of Becca Manners. Manners turned to MLMs in search of purpose and community. Her venture into MLMs began with promises of empowerment, but quickly spiraled into a cycle of relentless selling and recruiting. This unrelenting pressure affected her relationships and led to a growing sense of isolation. The uplifting lingo that had first attracted her morphed into a manipulative myth, convincing her that quitting MLM meant surrendering her dreams. Ultimately, Manners’ story highlights the emotional and psychological toll that MLMs can exact.
MLMs are not a new phenomenon; they are deeply ingrained in American culture. They first emerged in response to the post-Great Depression job market, gaining traction among suburban women in the 1950s. Surprisingly, their expansion is also linked to religious creeds, specifically the prosperity gospel, which links financial success with divine favor. This idea is quite popular in Christian communities, so MLM recruiters are skilled at tapping into faith-based narratives. This fusion of business and belief not only fuels their growth, but also adds a layer of moral ambiguity.
Summing up, MLMs are a complex combination of enterprise, empowerment, and potential exploitation. Joining requires caution, as the line between genuine opportunity and exploitation can be razor-thin. Despite the promise of financial freedom, MLMs can often result in financial strain and personal unrest.
Key idea 5
Community vs. control in fitness programs
American fitness culture has evolved, merging messages of personal development and emotional resilience. Programs like intenSati combine elements of dance, kickboxing, and yoga. These sessions are not just workouts; they are billed as transformative experiences that cater to both the body and the mind.
Is there something cultish about these inspiring workouts? Definitely. Programs like intenSati and SoulCycle are rich with affirmations and motivational speeches. They create a space that is physically stimulating and emotionally engaging, establishing a strong sense of community and boosting self-esteem among participants. Instructors often gain quasi-spiritual status, forming bonds with members that surpass the typical gym-class rapport. Such connections tread a fine line. But why is maintaining this balance so important?
The answer lies in the risk of overreach. Strong loyalty within these groups can, regrettably, lead to abuse and exploitation, as seen in the Bikram Yoga scandal. So steer clear of groups or leaders advocating harmful, extreme protocols. Instead, choose groups that value inclusivity, safety, and personal differences. Always keep in mind that fitness is just one part of a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any other key elements to look out for? The level of commitment required, the instructor's attitude, and the penalties of quitting the group can all have a bearing on how healthy a fitness class is overall. Generally, programs that empower members to take control, like intenSati, tend to be safer compared to those centered around a charismatic leader.
In short, fitness clubs provide a mix of exercise and emotional support, but it is important to weigh their social and mental impact. If you’re interested in joining, you should think about what you need, set boundaries, and stay mindful of group dynamics.
Just like fitness instructors, social media influencers mold opinions and behaviors by forming communities and setting trends. Next, we will explore how social media influences personal decisions and social interactions, much like the world of cult fitness.
Key idea 6
The cultish charisma of online influencers
Now we turn to the digital age, where the emergence of spiritual influencers on platforms like Instagram has reshaped cult-like behaviors. Take Bentinho Massaro, a self-styled spiritual guru who symbolizes the power of social media to develop devoted followings. Influencers like Massaro use mystical language and visually stunning content to promise spiritual awakening and personal transformation, enchanting many followers.
However, this digital influence is not without its dark side. The tragic story of Brent Wilkins, a follower of Massaro, brings this into sharp focus. Wilkins, deeply influenced by Massaro's teachings, met a tragic end, taking his own life during a spiritual retreat in Sedona, Arizona. This incident highlights the dangerous potential of such influence, where followers seeking spiritual guidance may find themselves entangled in toxic and manipulative environments. Despite the backlash following the Sedona retreat incident, Massaro deflected criticism, continuing his teachings and maintaining his online presence. This resilience reflects the complex nature of online spiritual communities; followers often remain faithful even in the face of controversy.
Striking a balance between healthy skepticism and openness is vital. Not all groups with cultish traits are harmful, and dismissing them outright could mean missing out on valuable experiences. Icons such as Carl Sagan demonstrated personal growth by embracing new experiences while remaining open-minded.
Today’s spiritual environment is diverse, with personal agency playing a vital part. You can choose your level of conviction and engagement. Just be mindful of the language use, and strike a balance between optimism and critical thinking.
The complex and sometimes risky field of spiritual influences on social media carries important reminders. These platforms can be sources of inspiration and connection, but we must approach them with caution, balancing our spiritual quests with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Final summary
This blink uncovers a startling truth: “cultish” language isn't confined to secret societies; it infiltrates our everyday lives. We see it everywhere, from passionate fitness groups to the remarkable reach of social media stars.
When you’re ideologically driven and open to new ideas, the seductive power of language can be irresistible. This alluring pull stems from our primal need to belong.
Yet, the power of cultish language goes beyond group dynamics. It can have major social consequences, resulting in prejudice, exclusion, and even violence. To encourage deeper understanding, empathy, and dialogue, we must recognize and question how we talk and think about these issues.
Forget mind control. In Cultish (2021), Amanda Montell exposes the verbal tricks that bind groups, from Heaven’s Gate to your Peloton Group. A fascinating look at how words shape beliefs and persuade us. Decode the language of domination and reclaim your power.
Introduction
What’s in it for me? Learn how cultish language shapes our beliefs and communities.
Language has shaped how we think and act since the dawn of time. It is a universal experience, as natural as breathing – yet the influence of rhetoric remains hidden in plain sight. This Blink will help explain this curious phenomenon, to show how words can both inspire and manipulate us.
Whether it’s the powerful pull of fitness communities like CrossFit, the cryptic draw of groups like Scientology, or the lure of multi-level marketing schemes, this blink exposes the core linguistic methods that bond people to these networks.
Discover the subtle yet powerful impact of language on your ideas and decisions, and equip yourself with the knowledge to control these influences in your daily life. This blink is more than just a study of classic cults; it is a mirror that reflects “cultish” characteristics in everyday connections, from business to politics and beyond.
Ready to learn how words shape worlds? Let’s begin.
Key idea 1
How words and surroundings shape belief
Have you ever considered how language can shape our beliefs? Let's look at this intriguing idea through the eyes of Tasha Samar and Alyssa Clarke.
Tasha, a first-generation Russian American Jew, found solace in the Healthy Happy Holy Organization (3HO) at thirteen. This Sikh-derived group, founded in the 1970s, offered more than just Kundalini yoga classes; it promised a compelling community with strict teachings. However, 3HO’s darker parts, such as psychological and sexual abuse, hinged on manipulative language, such as dubbing members who showed weakness “lizard brain.” Yogi Bhajan was skilled at transforming positive terminology into threatening concepts. People who tried to leave the group were threatened with violence, and there was even an unsolved murder.
Now, consider Alyssa Clarke’s experience. Moving to Los Angeles, she found herself immersed in the CrossFit culture. The attraction? A strong community vibe, complete with its own lingo and lifestyle. For Alyssa, CrossFit’s unique language and Paleo-diet culture create a near-religious devotion. CrossFit’s unique language fosters unity. Members train in a “box,” while instructors are called “coaches.” The goal is to shape members both inside and outside the gym, urging mantras like “Beast mode!” and “Everything is everything” (EIE). Sounds good, right?
Well, not always. One drawback to CrossFit is the risk of injury from the high-intensity workouts. It can also lead to overtraining and burnout. As with any fitness community or subculture, some people may get so obsessed with CrossFit that it takes over their lives; this is comparable to a cult. Both Tasha and Alyssa's accounts show that language, combined with community dynamics, is a formidable force. It can create solidarity, sure. However, it can also shape a polarizing mindset, steering behaviors in subtle yet profound ways.
Is CrossFit really a cult? It has similar characteristics. To determine whether something is a cult, we should define what the term “cult” means. It’s an emotive word that reflects our attitudes toward spirituality and certain types of communities. It may refer to a new religion, an online group, or even a beauty brand. A cult is typically defined as involving a strong devotion to a person, idea, or thing, as well as unorthodox beliefs or practices. While the term’s meaning varies, some cultish features can be detected in everyday situations. One thing is certain: language matters. Words have the power to alter our views, hide the truth, and affect our well-being. The force of cultish words goes beyond spiritual and fitness groups. It exists in both business and politics because all charismatic leaders use such language to instill common beliefs in, and exert control over, their followers.
Next, we will look at how this force manifests in notorious “suicide cults,” such as Jonestown.
Key idea 2
The lethal language of cult leaders
Have you ever heard the phrase “drinking the Kool-Aid”? I’m sure you have. But did you know this popular phrase has a horrible history? The term hails from a 1978 event known as the Jonestown Massacre, in which over 900 members of a sect called the People’s Temple drank cyanide-laced Flavor Aid, a Kool-Aid knock-off, in an act of mass suicide. Today, “drinking the Kool-aid” suggests deep, unwavering commitment to a group, religion, or cause, even when that devotion is clearly illogical or even dangerous. Reflecting on this bleak beginning, it’s reasonable to ask: What gives these leaders such compelling power?
Jim Jones and other cult leaders are not only charismatic, but also linguistic masters. They use language to create an us-versus-them mindset, making believers feel unique and set apart from the world. Jones would constantly adapt his words and dialect to the person he was talking to, making them feel understood and appreciated. He would use language and phrases that only Peoples Temple members understood, creating a sense of belonging and exclusivity. Cult leaders routinely do this, using loaded language and, as the author calls them, “thought-terminating clichés.” Such phrases provoke strong emotions and are designed to shut down critical thinking. One recent example is Qanon's “Trust the Plan.”
Other prominent verbal tactics used in cults include renaming and euphemism. Renaming signifies a member’s complete submission to the group. Both leaders and outsiders receive new titles, reinforcing the us-versus-them mentality. Euphemisms serve to soften the impact of uncomfortable or frightening concepts such as death, changing them into something less threatening or even aspirational. Through these linguistic sleights of hand, followers are subtly conditioned to accept and absorb specific views.
So, what’s the big takeaway here? We know that leaders can use language that is both seductive and dangerously influential. However, they achieve this via a combination of emotional manipulation and mental control, often leading followers down unexpected pathways.
As we move forward, let us turn our attention to problematic religions such as Scientology. This sect has sparked widespread debate. What makes them so controversial, and how do they compare to the cult dynamics we have just discussed? Stay tuned as we continue to explore this fascinating topic.
Key idea 3
Scientology: A masterclass in cult recruitment
Los Angeles, the city of dreams, is also home to the Church of Scientology. This organization promises spiritual enlightenment and success, but it also tempts its members with seductive jargon and a domineering culture.
It all starts with a personality test, but that is just the beginning in a world full of possibilities. Prospects like Cathy Schenkelberg are lured by the chance of breaking into the entertainment industry, thanks to high-profile endorsements from celebrities like Tom Cruise and John Travolta.
However, Scientology’s power does not lie solely in its promises; it’s deeply rooted in the tactics and language it employs. Termslike “enturbulated” and “Dev-T” form an insider’s lexicon. These specialized terms have a dual purpose: they build a sense of community while discreetly imposing controls on people like Cathy. Endless methods, including propaganda films and assessments, highlight recruits’ flaws. What is the answer? Why, Scientology, of course.
Scientology also uses terms like “suppressive person” (SP) and “potential trouble source” (PTS) to create a sense of exclusivity. Members must agree to follow a hierarchical path of enlightenment toward the elusive goal of “going clear.” This path is not only endless but also complex and very expensive, and traps subjects in a circle of constant investment. Members stay because their concerns are eclipsed by a feeling that they’ve already invested too much – financially, spiritually, and emotionally – to quit.
Scientology is more than just a religious movement; it is a masterclass in recruiting ambitious people who want to belong. Its organized path to spiritual growth traps followers in an endless cycle of devotion and investment, at exorbitant personal and financial cost.
Next, we will examine another model built on ambition and promises of success: multi-level marketing companies (MLMs). These businesses, each with its distinct model and controversial practices, offer yet another lens through which to examine cultish influence.
Key idea 4
Empowerment and exploitation in multi-level marketing
Imagine being offered financial freedom and entrepreneurship on a plate. This is the appeal of multi-level marketing (MLM), a domain bursting with promises of independence and empowerment. Renowned for their direct sales of beauty and wellness products, MLMs weave their way into our social networks, tempting us with the prospect of earning full-time income through part-time work. Yet as enticing as it sounds, the glittery facade often masks a different reality.
MLMs are particularly compelling to a specific group: stay-at-home wives and mothers. Terms like “boss babe” and “mompreneur” are not just marketing slogans; they are carefully crafted to resonate with those seeking a careful blend of career and family life. However, MLMs are fraught with complexities. While operating within legal limits, they tread a fine line between legitimate business practices and illegal pyramid schemes. What is the difference? MLMs should prioritize selling products above recruiting new sellers. However, this distinction is often ignored, leading to controversy and legal scrutiny.
Now, let’s hear the story of Becca Manners. Manners turned to MLMs in search of purpose and community. Her venture into MLMs began with promises of empowerment, but quickly spiraled into a cycle of relentless selling and recruiting. This unrelenting pressure affected her relationships and led to a growing sense of isolation. The uplifting lingo that had first attracted her morphed into a manipulative myth, convincing her that quitting MLM meant surrendering her dreams. Ultimately, Manners’ story highlights the emotional and psychological toll that MLMs can exact.
MLMs are not a new phenomenon; they are deeply ingrained in American culture. They first emerged in response to the post-Great Depression job market, gaining traction among suburban women in the 1950s. Surprisingly, their expansion is also linked to religious creeds, specifically the prosperity gospel, which links financial success with divine favor. This idea is quite popular in Christian communities, so MLM recruiters are skilled at tapping into faith-based narratives. This fusion of business and belief not only fuels their growth, but also adds a layer of moral ambiguity.
Summing up, MLMs are a complex combination of enterprise, empowerment, and potential exploitation. Joining requires caution, as the line between genuine opportunity and exploitation can be razor-thin. Despite the promise of financial freedom, MLMs can often result in financial strain and personal unrest.
Key idea 5
Community vs. control in fitness programs
American fitness culture has evolved, merging messages of personal development and emotional resilience. Programs like intenSati combine elements of dance, kickboxing, and yoga. These sessions are not just workouts; they are billed as transformative experiences that cater to both the body and the mind.
Is there something cultish about these inspiring workouts? Definitely. Programs like intenSati and SoulCycle are rich with affirmations and motivational speeches. They create a space that is physically stimulating and emotionally engaging, establishing a strong sense of community and boosting self-esteem among participants. Instructors often gain quasi-spiritual status, forming bonds with members that surpass the typical gym-class rapport. Such connections tread a fine line. But why is maintaining this balance so important?
The answer lies in the risk of overreach. Strong loyalty within these groups can, regrettably, lead to abuse and exploitation, as seen in the Bikram Yoga scandal. So steer clear of groups or leaders advocating harmful, extreme protocols. Instead, choose groups that value inclusivity, safety, and personal differences. Always keep in mind that fitness is just one part of a healthy lifestyle.
Are there any other key elements to look out for? The level of commitment required, the instructor's attitude, and the penalties of quitting the group can all have a bearing on how healthy a fitness class is overall. Generally, programs that empower members to take control, like intenSati, tend to be safer compared to those centered around a charismatic leader.
In short, fitness clubs provide a mix of exercise and emotional support, but it is important to weigh their social and mental impact. If you’re interested in joining, you should think about what you need, set boundaries, and stay mindful of group dynamics.
Just like fitness instructors, social media influencers mold opinions and behaviors by forming communities and setting trends. Next, we will explore how social media influences personal decisions and social interactions, much like the world of cult fitness.
Key idea 6
The cultish charisma of online influencers
Now we turn to the digital age, where the emergence of spiritual influencers on platforms like Instagram has reshaped cult-like behaviors. Take Bentinho Massaro, a self-styled spiritual guru who symbolizes the power of social media to develop devoted followings. Influencers like Massaro use mystical language and visually stunning content to promise spiritual awakening and personal transformation, enchanting many followers.
However, this digital influence is not without its dark side. The tragic story of Brent Wilkins, a follower of Massaro, brings this into sharp focus. Wilkins, deeply influenced by Massaro's teachings, met a tragic end, taking his own life during a spiritual retreat in Sedona, Arizona. This incident highlights the dangerous potential of such influence, where followers seeking spiritual guidance may find themselves entangled in toxic and manipulative environments. Despite the backlash following the Sedona retreat incident, Massaro deflected criticism, continuing his teachings and maintaining his online presence. This resilience reflects the complex nature of online spiritual communities; followers often remain faithful even in the face of controversy.
Striking a balance between healthy skepticism and openness is vital. Not all groups with cultish traits are harmful, and dismissing them outright could mean missing out on valuable experiences. Icons such as Carl Sagan demonstrated personal growth by embracing new experiences while remaining open-minded.
Today’s spiritual environment is diverse, with personal agency playing a vital part. You can choose your level of conviction and engagement. Just be mindful of the language use, and strike a balance between optimism and critical thinking.
The complex and sometimes risky field of spiritual influences on social media carries important reminders. These platforms can be sources of inspiration and connection, but we must approach them with caution, balancing our spiritual quests with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Final summary
This blink uncovers a startling truth: “cultish” language isn't confined to secret societies; it infiltrates our everyday lives. We see it everywhere, from passionate fitness groups to the remarkable reach of social media stars.
When you’re ideologically driven and open to new ideas, the seductive power of language can be irresistible. This alluring pull stems from our primal need to belong.
Yet, the power of cultish language goes beyond group dynamics. It can have major social consequences, resulting in prejudice, exclusion, and even violence. To encourage deeper understanding, empathy, and dialogue, we must recognize and question how we talk and think about these issues.
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