"The series reinforced something I'd known about myself: Cults have always appealed to me. I always longed to be part of a group, especially one whose goal was to build each other up or, most aspirationally, to change the world. If the right charismatic leader came along, I hate to say it, but I could easily be brainwashed into cutting off my family, emptying my savings account, and proselytizing via a message about a new prophet who's fallen to earth,"
"Instead, I pledge my allegiance to the founders of AA, Bill W. and Dr. Bob, and save most of my money and self-esteem. I know that AA is not this type of cult. You know it. (But don't tell that to the people online who call it one.) Most people who can think for themselves know the difference as well."
A person in Alcoholics Anonymous with four years of sobriety wonders how to describe the program's positive effects without sounding cult-like. A recent documentary about NXIVM triggered comparisons between cult dynamics and certain 12-step group features, including intense group cohesion and rituals. The individual admits a personal attraction to belonging and recognizes how charismatic leadership could lead to dangerous compliance in other contexts. The individual identifies AA as fundamentally different: a voluntary support network centered on stopping drinking, often resembling extended group therapy. The spiritual language and rituals of some meetings can make newcomers hesitant to attend.
Read at Slate Magazine
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