Cultish

In Cultish, Amanda Montell delves into the social science of cult influence, exploring how language shapes and manipulates communities, from infamous groups like Jonestown to modern entities like Peloton and social media influencers. Through engaging storytelling and original research, she reveals the profound impact of "cultish" language on our daily lives, stirring curiosity about why individuals are drawn to extreme ideologies. By examining the nuances of community and belief, Montell provides a thought-provoking look at how these dynamics can affect anyone, often without them realizing. This captivating analysis underscores the pervasive nature of such language and its power over our thoughts and actions.