Is it possible that the term cult could be applied to Christian evangelicalism? I'm wondering if we are too quick to apply the Other when we think of cults, thereby missing the examples that are right under our nose. Thank you for the article.
Thanks for subscribing Bryan. I think that using Ross's definition of the word, there are many Christian evangelical cults with leaders who operate as unaccountable totalitarians who use thought reform techniques to the detriment of the followers. It's definitely an 'othering' word, you're right and I agree, plenty of examples right under our noses. The multi-level marketing schemes particularly pernicious.
Aside: I'm known to study Gayatri Chakravorti Spivak and "Can the Subaltern Speak?" which is from Gramsci. There is overload on the internet about both. She references his work fiercely. I read fret over how hard it is to understand her work, but it's a matter of submersion and patience.
Good challenge in bits, I'd say. Here's her Holberg Prize lecture with her dynamic presentation style. I am partial to her ecopoetic stance. Someday, I hope to meet her. She's my cult leader. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4SdCezYZd0
Not to take away from your piece in the Telegraph...Those pieces on the wall of Ross's home, wowzers. I remember Waco. Yikes.
Thanks Cate! And yes, quite a lively comments section on the Rick Ross piece, certainly. 'Cult' is one of those words, we sling it at our enemies, and yet, when it comes down to it, we're all vulnerable. Part of the great post-truth word cloud.
Is it possible that the term cult could be applied to Christian evangelicalism? I'm wondering if we are too quick to apply the Other when we think of cults, thereby missing the examples that are right under our nose. Thank you for the article.
Thanks for subscribing Bryan. I think that using Ross's definition of the word, there are many Christian evangelical cults with leaders who operate as unaccountable totalitarians who use thought reform techniques to the detriment of the followers. It's definitely an 'othering' word, you're right and I agree, plenty of examples right under our noses. The multi-level marketing schemes particularly pernicious.
Amazing piece on Ross. Hard to believe there'll be no successor. The Gramsci quote is eerie. Thank you!
Thanks Rhony! Yes, it's bizarre that Ross is one of a dying breed, especially now.
Aside: I'm known to study Gayatri Chakravorti Spivak and "Can the Subaltern Speak?" which is from Gramsci. There is overload on the internet about both. She references his work fiercely. I read fret over how hard it is to understand her work, but it's a matter of submersion and patience.
I've not read any Spivak, but one day! Have to steel myself, it sounds challenging...
Good challenge in bits, I'd say. Here's her Holberg Prize lecture with her dynamic presentation style. I am partial to her ecopoetic stance. Someday, I hope to meet her. She's my cult leader. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4SdCezYZd0
Not to take away from your piece in the Telegraph...Those pieces on the wall of Ross's home, wowzers. I remember Waco. Yikes.
Thanks!
Two fantastic articles. Interesting comments section in the Telegraph, too!
Thanks Cate! And yes, quite a lively comments section on the Rick Ross piece, certainly. 'Cult' is one of those words, we sling it at our enemies, and yet, when it comes down to it, we're all vulnerable. Part of the great post-truth word cloud.