Hundreds of other cult leaders have gathered far more followers than Jones by promising new psychological and spiritual utopias. They have succeeded by combining various ages-old psychological and social persuasion techniques in an atmosphere os Madison Avenue soft-sell approaches. Because most of the followers have been youthful or poor, little attention and credence has been given to reports from ex-members, families and friends who report the effects of the techniques of manipulation used by the groups.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Leaders promise utopias using old persuasion techniques mixed with modern marketing. Reports from families and ex-members are often ignored due to followers being young or poor.
- In plain terms
- Leaders sell utopias using old tricks and modern marketing while ignoring warnings.
- What can you take from it?
- Be skeptical of promises of perfect worlds backed by slick marketing.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why are warnings from ex-members ignored?
- How does marketing aid manipulation?
Another view
Some groups may genuinely aim for positive change despite marketing.
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