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About this quote

What does it mean?
Wall notes Hubbard's followers were pledged to suicide, implying he never officially died.
In plain terms
Hubbard’s followers promised suicide, so he never truly died.
What can you take from it?
Beware of extreme loyalty that undermines reality.

Where it applies

  • examining charismatic leaders
  • studying group dynamics
  • critical thinking

Putting it to work

  • question group oaths
  • maintain personal autonomy

Questions to consider

  • How does promised suicide affect group cohesion?
  • What safeguards prevent such extreme commitments?

Another view

The statement is anecdotal and may exaggerate.

More from Larry Wall

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  3. To Perl, or not to Perl, that is the kvetching.

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