Book Review: "Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism" by Amanda Montell
- Meghan Harris
- Feb 1, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 2, 2024
Amanda Montell's "Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism" is a riveting exploration into the linguistic foundations of cults and cult-like groups that permeate our modern society. With the analytical depth that she brought to her debut, "Wordslut," Montell dives into the murky waters of cult communication, revealing how language not only reflects but also constructs our realities, particularly within the context of fanatical groups.
Language as a Tool of Influence
Montell's fascination with cults, partly spurred by her father's involvement with the Synanon movement, serves as a backdrop to her thorough examination of how language can manipulate and exploit. From the notorious NXIVM and QAnon to the seemingly innocuous realms of fitness cults like CrossFit and Peloton, Montell dissects the "cultish" language that binds followers to their leaders and ideologies. She adeptly shows that the power of cults lies not in the stereotypical brainwashing techniques but in their strategic use of language to create an inescapable reality for their members.
A Spectrum of Cultish Behavior
One of the book's strengths is its wide lens on what constitutes a "cultish" group. Montell's narrative spans the spectrum from destructive suicide cults like Jonestown to modern-day obsessions with fitness regimes and multilevel marketing schemes. She brings to light the common linguistic threads that run through these varied groups, such as insider lingo, thought-terminating clichés, and love-bombing, which serve to solidify group identity and suppress dissent.
The Blurred Lines Between Cult and Culture
"Cultish" compellingly argues that the language of fanaticism is not confined to the fringes of society but is woven into the fabric of everyday life. Montell's personal anecdotes, such as her encounter with Scientology and the disillusionment with a beloved sleep coach, underscore how cultish language can influence even the most skeptical among us. The book forces readers to confront the uncomfortable truth that the line between cult and culture is often more porous than we'd like to admit.
Critical Insights with Empathy
Montell's approach to the subject matter is both critical and empathetic. She avoids the trap of sensationalizing or trivializing the experiences of those who have been drawn into cultish groups. Instead, she offers a nuanced understanding of the human needs for belonging and purpose that these groups exploit. Her analysis is enriched by interviews with cult survivors and a deep dive into the social and psychological mechanisms at play.
Engaging and Thought-Provoking
With a blend of humor, personal reflection, and rigorous scholarship, "Cultish" is as engaging as it is enlightening. Montell's writing style is accessible and lively, making complex linguistic and psychological concepts digestible for a broad audience. The book not only educates but also empowers readers to recognize and resist the manipulative use of language in their own lives.
Conclusion
"Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism" is a fascinating, enthusiastic narrative that unpacks the loaded language of cults with precision and care. Amanda Montell's exploration into the social science behind cult communication is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of language, the dynamics of group behavior, and the ever-present influence of cultish groups in contemporary society. This book serves as a reminder that while the world may change, the fundamental human susceptibility to the seductive clarity of cultish language remains constant.
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