#5177
Mentioned in 27 episodes
Cultish
The Language of Fanaticism
Book • 2021
In 'Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism,' Amanda Montell argues that the key to manufacturing intense ideology, community, and us/them attitudes in cults and cult-like groups lies in the use of language.
The book delves into the verbal elements that make these communities 'cultish,' including the redefinition of words, euphemisms, and other linguistic tricks.
Montell analyzes various groups such as Jonestown, Scientology, NXIVM, and even modern entities like SoulCycle and social media influencers, highlighting how these groups use language to create a sense of belonging and loyalty.
The book is praised for its engaging narrative, original research, and incisive analysis of the power of language in shaping human behavior.
The book delves into the verbal elements that make these communities 'cultish,' including the redefinition of words, euphemisms, and other linguistic tricks.
Montell analyzes various groups such as Jonestown, Scientology, NXIVM, and even modern entities like SoulCycle and social media influencers, highlighting how these groups use language to create a sense of belonging and loyalty.
The book is praised for its engaging narrative, original research, and incisive analysis of the power of language in shaping human behavior.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 27 episodes
Mentioned by Vic Whitley-Berry when describing the podcast’s book club selection as similar to Montell's book.
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