**'Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism**―Understanding the Social Science of Cult Influence is a nonfiction' 🏷️#book by Amanda Montell, published by Harper in June 2021. The work examines how groups ranging from notorious cults such as Jonestown and Heaven’s Gate to more mainstream communities, including fitness programs and social media circles, leverage language to influence, unite, and control their members. Montell explores the mechanisms by which language shapes ideology, belonging, and the formation of us-versus-them dynamics, arguing that “cultish” language is a pervasive feature across many aspects of modern life. Through case studies, research, and storytelling, the book illuminates the social science underlying cult influence and reveals how seemingly innocuous language can foster intense loyalty and belief.
This was recommended to me by 📝Alexandra Mathieu and is on my 🏷️#reading-list.