I used the title quote about this time last year. It's relevant again as I look forward to joining a new school for 2026.
To help prepare, I'm reading a few texts that I'll be using next term. Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism by Amanda Montell is the book I brought with me to my in-law's place for Christmas in New Plymouth.
It's interesting on a few fronts, having just read a book about NZ cult Gloriavale, having worked in Plymouth Brethren schools, and being about to work in another special character school.
It's also interesting to consider the wider applications of cults in other contexts - including a political one, and how language influences actions. Montell - “Totalitarian leaders can’t hope to gain or maintain power without using language to till a psychological schism between their followers and everyone else.”
I'm looking forward to having some meaty discussions around this with my new students.
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