Today, there are thousands of cults around the world. Broadly speaking, a cult is a group or movement with a shared commitment to a usually extreme ideology that's typically embodied in a charismatic leader. But what exactly differentiates cults from other groups – and why do people join them? Janja Lalich describes how cults recruit and manipulate their members. [Directed by Globizco, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Manuel Borda].

Janja Lalich: Why do people join cults?

Why do people join cults?

A cult's allure often lies in offering absolute answers to life's big questions, exploiting our desires for belonging and meaning.

Cults thrive on high commitment and strict hierarchies, using influence and control to suppress dissent and external criticism.

The fine line between cults and religions blurs with growth; while religions integrate into society, cults isolate and control.