Episode 8: Cult Speak and Clichés; Unpacking the Language of Control

Cults and the Culting of America

Summary

In this conversation, Daniella and Scot discuss the use of specialized language or vernacular in cults and high control groups. They explore how cults develop their own language to create a sense of belonging and isolation from the outside world. They also discuss the impact of language on communication and the difficulty of finding community after leaving a cult. The conversation highlights the manipulation of language by cult leaders to disguise abuse and control. They emphasize the importance of critically evaluating loaded language and cliches to uncover their true meaning. In this conversation, Daniella Mestyanek Young and Scot Loyd discuss the use of cliches and loaded language in cults and other contexts. They explore how cliches are used to shut down critical thinking and manipulate individuals. They also discuss the conflation of ideas and the use of binary thinking to control and dismiss dissenting voices. The conversation touches on the concept of conspirituality and the influence of language in advertising and politics. They provide guidance on becoming more aware of manipulative language and the importance of exposing oneself to diverse viewpoints.

Daniella Mestyanek Young's book:

· From Bookshop.org

• Uncultured Autograph:

Connect with Daniella on social media

• TikTok, Patreon, Instagram
• Youtube
• Connect with Scot Loyd's social media (TikTok)
• Daniella's other podcast: Hey White Women

Takeaways

Cults develop their own language to create a sense of belonging and isolation from the outside world. Language is used by cult leaders to manipulate and control their followers. Leaving a cult can result in a loss of community due to the specialized language and shared experiences. It is important to critically evaluate loaded language and cliches to uncover their true meaning. Language can be a powerful tool for communication and understanding, but it can also be used to deceive and manipulate. Cliches are used in cults and other contexts to shut down critical thinking and manipulate individuals. Binary thinking and the conflation of ideas are used to control and dismiss dissenting voices. Conspirituality refers to the use of language in health, wellness, and spirituality communities to manipulate and control individuals. It is important to be critical of the language and messages directed towards us, including in advertising and politics. Exposing oneself to diverse viewpoints and avoiding isolation can help guard against manipulation. Watch out for dehumanizing language and us versus them mentality, as these are tactics used by cults to create a sense of superiority and wage wars.