51 pages • 1 hour read
Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism
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Book Brief
320
Book • Nonfiction
2020s
2023
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism, Amanda Montell explores how American cults and various modern communities like MLMs and fitness groups manipulate language to shape reality and control members, illustrating a shared cultish language. References to and depictions of suicide, homicide, racial issues, political issues, kidnapping, harm to children, gun violence, body shaming, sexual abuse, and rape are present.
Informative
Mysterious
Contemplative
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
95,754 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Amanda Montell's Cultish receives praise for its engaging exploration of the language used by cults to manipulate and control. Readers appreciate Montell's insightful analysis and accessible writing style, though some critique the book for lacking depth in certain case studies. Overall, it is seen as a compelling read that sheds light on the power of language.
Who Should Read Cultish?
Readers who relish dissecting language, culture, and societal influences, akin to those who enjoyed Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari or The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, will find Amanda Montell's Cultish compelling. This book suits enthusiasts of linguistics, psychology, and the subtle power of words in shaping belief systems.
95,754 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jim Jones
Jim Jones
A notorious cult leader of the Peoples Temple infamous for orchestrating the mass suicide at Jonestown, known for his adaptive rhetoric and visionary promises that veiled darker intentions.
L. Ron Hubbard
L. Ron Hubbard
The founder of Scientology who developed the pseudoscientific concepts of Dianetics, influencing the movement's linguistic and operational framework.
Marshall Applewhite
Marshall Applewhite
The leader of the Heaven's Gate cult, who used themes of extraterrestrial salvation to lead his followers to a mass suicide, bonding them with his prophetic rhetoric.
Teal Swan
Teal Swan
A pseudopsychology guru known for manipulating followers through spiritual and psychological language, associated with controversial healing practices and online influence.
320
Book • Nonfiction
2020s
2023
Adult
18+ years
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