Are you in a cult?

Questions are healthy. If you’re in an environment where voicing doubts is forbidden, then watch out, says Rend Collective’s Chris Llewellyn. You could be in a cult

The Rolling Stones used to get off stage and snort cocaine. Our band get into our PJs, pour a bowl of cereal and watch Netflix documentaries.

In the boring-yet-appropriate absence of our own scandals, it seems we’re irresistibly drawn to those of others. The theme of our post-show tour bus viewing over the last year has often been exposés of various cults. We have a macabre fascination with the gory details of these high-control religious groups.

A recurring plot line seems to emerge: there is a charismatic leader, always dangerously out of reach of accountability. The culture always rewards blind faith in the leadership. Those who question authority are met with aggression and gaslighting, meaning their own character is called into question, rather than the leader’s. Ultimately, if they keep asking questions, they will be shunned. The faithful will become victims of psychological abuse (at a minimum), physical or sexual harm, or financial ruin.