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The Similarity Of Political And Religious Cults

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A frequent criticism of any political figure with a devoted following is that the figure is at the center of a "cult of personality."  Pay close attention to that word, cult, because Robert Jay Lifton says it's important. 

Lifton should know, he's a psychiatrist and a historian, and from his view, fanatical religious cults and extremist political movements are not far apart.  He explores the concept in depth in a new book, Losing Reality: On Cults, Cultism, and the Mindset of Political and Religious Zealotry.  Hold on for a wild ride, as we track the progress of people who themselves take wild rides behind charismatic leaders.  

 

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The Jefferson Exchange is Jefferson Public Radio's daily talk show focused on news and interests across our region of Southern Oregon and Northern California. Angela Decker is the senior producer, Charlie Zimmermann is the assistant producer, and Geoffrey Riley hosts the show.