Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism – How Words Turn Us Into Believers Without Realizing
Welcome, dear readers . If you’ve ever scrolled past a wellness guru on Instagram, sat through a hyped-up MLM seminar, or followed a charismatic lifestyle brand, you may have already stepped into the world Amanda Montell calls cultish. But don’t worry—it’s not about robes and rituals. It’s about words, phrases, and linguistic tricks that shape your beliefs without you even knowing it.
Today, we explore her bestselling book:
“Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism” — and how it reveals the dark power of everyday speech.
What is Cultish, Really?
Montell redefines what we usually think of as a “cult.” It’s not just Jonestown or Scientology anymore. In fact, many modern brands, fitness groups, influencers, and MLMs use cultish language to build loyalty, suppress doubt, and create a “them vs. us” mentality.
The focus isn’t on violence—it’s on vocabulary.
“It’s language that makes these groups feel like sanctuaries for their members,” Montell writes. “And the rest of the world like a threat.”
Key Concepts from the Book
1. Thought-Terminating Clichés
Ever heard someone say “It is what it is,” “Trust the process,” or “Everything happens for a reason”? These aren’t just harmless sayings. According to Montell, they’re linguistic roadblocks—phrases that end critical thinking. They shut down questions and reinforce groupthink.
2. Loaded Language
From mantras to inside acronyms, cultish groups thrive on creating special “in-group” phrases. CrossFit has “WOD.” Beachbody has “Coach.” MLMs call you a “boss babe.” These terms make you feel included… and subtly dependent on the group identity.
3. Linguistic Manipulation in Modern Groups
Montell dives into how groups like SoulCycle, essential oil companies, and even political movements use hypnotic phrasing to invoke emotion, create urgency, and establish superiority. The goal? Make you feel like an insider and silence your doubts.
Why You Might Be More "Cultish" Than You Think
This book isn’t just about them. It’s about us. Montell gently reminds us that we’re all vulnerable to cultish language—because we all crave community, meaning, and certainty.
Whether it’s a Facebook group, a startup, or a self-help podcast, if the language makes you feel guilty for asking questions or promises transformation without transparency—pause. Reflect. Reclaim your voice.
“Language doesn’t just reflect reality. It creates it,” Montell warns.
Final Thoughts: Why Cultish Matters
Amanda Montell doesn’t vilify all group culture—but she gives you linguistic armor. Her book is a must-read for anyone who wants to protect themselves from manipulation in the age of algorithms, hashtags, and influence.
In a world where charisma is currency, Cultish is your translation guide for spotting red flags—before you sign up, buy in, or drink the Kool-Aid.
What Do You Think?
Have you noticed cultish language around you? Ever felt uneasy about a group but couldn’t explain why? Drop a comment below—let’s decode the language together.