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Toxic Individualism in Self-Help
- The self-help industry thrives on optimism and promises that individuals alone can unlock their potential with the right tools.
- This fuels a toxic individualism where failure is blamed on oneself, making people vulnerable to cult-like exploitation.
Self-Help Roots in Calvinism
- Early American success ideologies are rooted in Calvinism, linking monetary success to divine blessing.
- This fusion of capitalism and spirituality set the stage for the modern self-help movement's promise of personal and financial fulfillment.
Sarah's NXIVM Entry Story
- Sarah Edmondson was drawn into NXIVM seeking personal development and community but found herself deeply ensnared in a cult-like environment.
- She quickly advanced and recruited others, highlighting how appealing and manipulative such groups can be, especially for vulnerable creatives.