Sociology · Writing and language
Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism
Amanda Montell looks at how language draws people into cults, from Jonestown and Heaven's Gate to fitness brands and multilevel marketing, and how similar tactics show up in everyday life.
Facts last checked 2026-10-17
- First published
- 2021
- Pace
- Medium
- Length
- Short
- Pages
- 272
- Format
- Standalone
Read this if you like pop-linguistics with a conversational, wry voice and an interest in group persuasion.
Skip this if you want a rigorous academic study of cult psychology.
The feel
Content warnings
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Quick answers about Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism
- What is Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism about?
- Amanda Montell looks at how language draws people into cults, from Jonestown and Heaven's Gate to fitness brands and multilevel marketing, and how similar tactics show up in everyday life.
- Who should read Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism?
- Read it if you like pop-linguistics with a conversational, wry voice and an interest in group persuasion. Skip it if you want a rigorous academic study of cult psychology.
- How long and how fast is Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism?
- It is a medium-paced, short read of about 272 pages, first published in 2021.
- Does Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism have content warnings?
- Content we flag: Abuse, Manipulation, Suicide.
- Can I borrow Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism for free?
- Often, yes. Check Libby (OverDrive) to see whether your library lends Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism; the borrow button above searches it for you.
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