cultism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cultism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the practices, beliefs, or behaviors associated with a cult, often in a critical context. Example: "The documentary explored the dangers of cultism and its impact on vulnerable individuals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Omolade Adunbi, an anthropologist, says that some students, fearing that they are going to be failed in exams, believe the only way to protect themselves is to belong to a cult where they can "harass professors".Ban them if you canRivers State outlawed cultism in 2004, setting up rehabilitation committees and special courts to try those accused of membership.

The Economist

She concludes, "it is this kind of dissociation of one kind of knowledge from another which reinforces cultism and aesthetic compromise with the representatives of oppression; precisely what Sontag herself was writing to deplore".

The New Yorker

Pop has always drawn energy from the lower floors of respectability; this movie, in which fan-boy cultism reaches new levels of goofy chaos and sexual confusion, draws energy from the subbasement.

The New Yorker

It would be a stretch to say that such color schemes reinforce "cultism and aesthetic compromise with the representatives of oppression," and in any case, even a happy warrior should choose her battles wisely.

The New Yorker

To the Editor: Ross Douthat proposes that the conjectures and affections surrounding the legacy of President John F. Kennedy are somehow akin to cultism.

The New York Times

The formula also calls for sinister cultism of some sort, and in this case the dark scheming involves overpopulation.

The New York Times - Books

Though he has become a cult writer of sorts — particularly admired by readers who have found novels like "Players," from 1977, about Wall Street brokers who get mixed up in a terrorist plot, almost eerily prophetic — he is uncomfortable with cultism.

The New York Times - Books

Evolutionary psychology, Dr. Gould wrote, "could be quite useful if proponents would trade their propensity for cultism and ultra-Darwinian fealty for a healthy dose of modesty".

The New York Times - Science

"It's about cultism, hero worship, institutionalising Mugabe, with sycophants around him trying to oil the wheels of patronage.

The Guardian

But there is about Hitler personally and about the Nazis in general a sort of cultism that attracts fascination.

The Guardian

In a world of supper clubs, niche diets, social media and restaurant cultism, hosting friends for supper had become outmoded, it argued.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cultism" to refer to systems or practices. For the state of mind, consider using "fanaticism" or "devotion" depending on the context.

Common error

Don't label any strong group loyalty as "cultism". Ensure the group exhibits manipulative or harmful behaviors before using this term.

Linguistic Context

The noun "cultism" functions as a descriptor for systems, practices, and ideologies associated with cults. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, encompassing religious, political, and social phenomena.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cultism" is a noun used to describe the practices and beliefs of cults, often carrying negative connotations. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, the term serves to critically analyze group dynamics and ideologies. When using "cultism", be mindful of potential overgeneralizations and ensure the presence of manipulative or harmful behaviors. Alternatives like "sectarianism" or "extremism" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cult-like behavior

Focuses on the actions resembling a cult, rather than the system itself.

devotion to a cult

Highlights the dedication and adherence associated with cults.

sectarianism

Emphasizes the division and exclusivity inherent in cult-like groups.

extremist ideology

Focuses on the radical belief system often associated with cults.

groupthink mentality

Highlights the suppression of individual thought within a group.

fanaticism

Stresses the excessive and often irrational enthusiasm or zeal.

indoctrination

Emphasizes the process of teaching someone to accept beliefs uncritically.

mind control

Highlights the manipulative practices used to influence members.

undue influence

Focuses on the manipulation of a person's free will or judgment.

religious extremism

Implies a radical interpretation and application of religious beliefs.

FAQs

How is "cultism" typically used in writing?

"Cultism" is typically used to describe the practices, beliefs, and social structures associated with cults, often with a negative connotation. It is used in contexts like analyzing social phenomena, political movements, or religious sects.

What are some alternatives to the word "cultism"?

Depending on the specific context, you can use alternatives such as "sectarianism", "extremism", or "fanaticism". Each of these words emphasizes a different aspect of the phenomenon.

Is there a difference between "cultism" and "religion"?

The distinction between "cultism" and "religion" is often subjective and depends on societal acceptance and historical context. Generally, "cultism" is used to describe groups that are seen as manipulative, destructive, or outside mainstream religious practices, while "religion" refers to more established and widely accepted systems of faith.

How does "cultism" manifest in different societies?

"Cultism" can manifest in various forms, from religious sects to political movements and even corporate environments. It typically involves intense devotion to a leader or ideology, suppression of dissent, and a strong sense of group identity. Its specific manifestations vary depending on cultural and historical factors.