Cultish Review: Words are Weapons

There is a joke in the movie Jane Austen Book Club about how Austen warns readers to never trust someone that is too charming. To question first impressions. And that if someone seems like they are too good to be true, well... they probably are. Cultish implores readers to do the same. Think critically. Cut through the bullshit.

This book is one I will think about for years. I would not have previously described myself as someone fascinated with cults. I haven't seen Midsommar; I have paid very little attention to Scientology. Regardless, Montell's analysis of how language can and does control groups… well, that's right the fuck up my alley.

First things first, brainwashing isn't a thing - but thought-terminating cliches that stop a conversation dead in its tracks? Language like "It is what it is, do your research," or even "you're brainwashed" sure as hell are.

Montell examines death cults, Scientology, multi-level marketing and pyramid schemes, workout cults, and social media with fascinating interviews, research, and an engaging, humorous, biting voice.

The book's chapters are as follows: "Repeat After Me.., Congratulations-You Have Been Chosen to Join the Next Evolutionary Level Above Human, Even YOU Can Learn to Speak in Tongues, Do You Wanna Be a # Bossbase?, This Hours is Going to Change Your Life... and Make You LOOK AWESOME, and Follow for Follow"

The ache for community that humans face is an overarching theme in this book. It was interesting to read alongside Kristen Radke's Seek You: A Journey Through American Loneliness. These books are not necessarily linked, but I do think they both look at our innate impulse to communicate and connect. Cultish isn't a brutal takedown and insult to people that have found themselves in cult-y scenarios, it's an examination of how and why that is able to happen.

In short? It all comes down to how words are twisted, transformed and manipulated, how insider language and code words turn into a sense of self. How attention in the wrong hands can turn into a dangerous and harmful power.