464. The psychology of cults

From abusive MLM’s and wellness programs to doomsday sects and UFO religions, we’re all fascinated by cults. Their mystery offers us a way to explore the darkest recesses of human behaviour, while remaining seemingly out of their reach. But how do we actually define a cult? 

Watch on Netflix: HERE

In this episode, we look at popular examples of cults, understand how they’re organised and recruit followers, and examine what makes some people so vulnerable to joining. We unpack: 

• How a cult is defined, featuring the BITE model of authoritarian control
• What makes cult leaders so distinctive - and dangerous 
• The (often surprising) tactics cults will employ to get people to join 
• How people behave during and in the aftermath of leaving a cult
• Why there are cults all around us today, and people are still drawn to them

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