One of the major differences between so-called ethical cults (Hassan references sports and music fans) and noxious ones is that an ethical group will be up-front about what they believe in, what they want from you, and what they expect from your membership. And leaving comes with few, if any, serious consequences. “If you say ‘I found a better band’ or ‘I’m not into basketball anymore,’ the other people won’t threaten you,” Hassan clarifies. “You won’t have irrational fears that you’ll go insane or be possessed by demons.”*
this makes me think about how bad stan culture has gotten in just the past 4 years alone. like there are wayyy too many fandoms now that will threaten you if you criticize the person they worship or give any reason as to why you don't like their magical leader anymore lmao
