Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism
by Amanda Montell
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The New York Times bestselling author of The Age of Magical Overthinking and Wordslut analyzes the social science of cult influence: how “cultish” groups, from Jonestown and Scientologists to SoulCycle and social media gurus, use language as the ultimate form of power. What makes “cults” so intriguing and frightening? What makes them powerful? The reason why so many of us binge Manson documentaries by the dozen and fall down rabbit holes researching suburban moms gone QAnon is because we’re looking for a satisfying explanation for what causes people to join—and more importantly, stay in—extreme groups. We secretly want to know: could it happen to me? Amanda Montell’s argument is that, on... The book successfully creates a sense of authenticity by portraying situations and emotions in a believable manner. Characters respond to challenges in ways that feel realistic, reinforcing reader connection and trust in the story. The story leaves readers with a sense of fulfillment by delivering a complete and thoughtfully constructed narrative. Its measured execution reinforces its lasting appeal.
