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This account and my work on Conspirituality Podcast focuses a lot on cult dynamics. The theme was also at the heart of my last book. I thought it would be useful to compile the most accessible resources that I use daily in a single place.
I hope it’s a timely compilation, as the concept of “cult” provokes an explosion of articles, books, and streaming documentaries — of varying qualities. “Wild Wild Country” for instance, offers a superficial and sensationalistic portrayal of the abusive cult of Rajneesh that centres his surviving lieutenants, who are given hours of screen time to rationalize their histories. Meanwhile, “Seduced”, produced and anchored by India Oxenberg, features legit experts and places the testimony of NXIVM survivors front and centre.
More currently, some researchers are using a cult-studies lens to explore the tactics of conspirituality and QAnon influencers — even though the existing literature has to be stretched to make sense of an accelerated timeline.For example, QAnon is primarily digital and leaderlessness, and it hangs together through the gamification of member activities on social media.
The bulk of available cult research has roots in the predigital era, and analysts are struggling to keep up. Nonetheless, the following foundational concepts are useful in developing an eye for indoctrination, networked abuse, and emotional contagion.
Standard modern definition of “cult” (1986)
This all-purpose definition was rolled out eight years after the Jonestown Massacre, during the first major ferment of modern cult studies. In my opinion, it has stood the test of time — especially its concise list of techniques.
“A group or movement exhibiting great or excessive devotion or dedication to some person, idea, or thing, and employing unethical manipulative or coercive techniques of persuasion and control (e.g., isolation from former friends and family, debilitation, use of special methods to heighten suggestibility and subservience, powerful group pressures, information management, suspension of individuality or critical judgment, promotion of total dependency on the group and fear of leaving it)…
