The Cult Label – How “Othering” language is used to justify violence.

The Cult Label – How “Othering” Language is Used to Justify Violence

The term “cult” has become synonymous with danger and fanaticism, evoking images of brainwashed followers and apocalyptic prophecies. But is the label fair, or does it perpetuate a harmful narrative that justifies violence against minority groups? In recent years, high-profile cases like the FLDS and NXIVM have brought the concept of cults into the public eye, sparking heated debates about free will, manipulation, and the boundaries between religion and criminal activity.

The Power of Language

Sociologist and author Jeffrey Hadden argues that the term “cult” is often used as a pejorative to describe minority religions or groups that don’t conform to societal norms. “The label ‘cult’ is used to discredit, dehumanize, and delegitimize,” he says in an interview with The Conversation. “It’s a way to say, ‘These people are not like us, they’re weird, and they’re dangerous.’”

A History of Prejudice

The term “cult” has its roots in the 17th-century European witch hunts, where anyone deemed outside the mainstream was labeled a “witch.” This “othering” language served as a justification for violence and persecution. Today, the same pattern is seen in modern society. A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that anti-cult rhetoric often relies on stereotypes and misinformation to discredit minority groups.

The Cult Label’s Consequences

The use of the term “cult” can have devastating consequences for individuals and communities. In a New York Times piece, journalist Rachel Aviv describes how the label has been used to justify violence against minority religions like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Muslims. “When people are labeled ‘cults,’ it allows them to be treated as an enemy, rather than a group of human beings with beliefs and practices,” she writes.

A Call for Nuance

Scholars argue that the term “cult” is too broad and lacks nuance, failing to distinguish between legitimate religious groups and those that may warrant concern. A report by the International Cultic Studies Association emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of minority religions and avoiding sensationalized language.

Beyond the Label

So what’s the solution? Experts suggest focusing on the individual actions and behaviors, rather than making sweeping judgments about entire groups. “We should be concerned with people’s behavior, not their beliefs or affiliations,” says Hadden. “Let’s focus on creating a society that values free speech, assembly, and association – without resorting to demonizing labels.”

The Cult Label – How “Othering” language is used to justify violence.