Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism

First, the title Cultish should be read as in English, Swedish, not as cult-like. Amanda explores the languages cults use - everything from Jonestown, Heaven's Gate, and Scientology to SoulCycle, Peloton, Amway, and QAnon. If you're into cults or communication, you'll enjoy this book.

What was most profound to me was the term “thought-terminating cliché.” Coined in 1961 by the psychiatrist Robert J. Lifton, this term refers to catchphrases aimed at halting an argument from moving forward by discouraging critical thought. Cultish leaders often call on thought-terminating clichés, also known as semantic stop signs, to hastily dismiss dissent or rationalize flawed reasoning.

Before you think, “I wouldn't fall for that,” ask yourself about the language used in all of the groups you are a part of in your daily life. Mantras, jargon, acronyms, and group-specific phrases, all inspire a sense of intrigue, so potential recruits will want to know more; then, once they're in, it creates camaraderie, such that they start to look down on people who aren't privy to this exclusive code.” Some psychologists call this “loaded language.” It is present far beyond the groups that many would quickly label as a cult.

Other than language, the biggest lure is being a part of a group or filling a need for a sense of belonging. It's also, on some level, a desire to better oneself – spiritually, intellectually, and physically.

So yeah, a fascinating book, and certainly a topic I want to explore more.