Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism

"In this thought-provoking-yet-accessible read, linguist Amanda Montell weaves together personal anecdotes, survivor interviews and academic research to walk us through the loaded language of cults. The book explores the influence of “cultish” groups from Scientology to SoulCycle, examining how they use language to their advantage and why so many of us find them fascinating. Montell, the daughter of a cult survivor, breaks down these communities’ stories and rhetorical strategies with context and care, asking important questions about what constitutes a cult and how exactly they win over their followers. You’ll come away armed with some nifty vocab terms and a better understanding of the cultish language that shapes us on a daily basis."