Cult Dynamics in Rationalist Communities

This chapter examines the parallels between Effective Altruism and rationalism with cult-like behaviors, highlighting their insular dynamics and recruitment tactics. It follows Zizi Lasota's journey in the rationalist community, discussing the emergence of CIFAR and its focus on cognitive biases as well as the controversial thought experiments influencing extreme ideological views. The narrative also explores the evolution of the Machine Intelligence Research Institute and the complexities of AI safety through Ziz's personal experiences and challenges.