When is something actually a cult? And why are some people convinced they think critically and freely, while at the same time being strongly influenced by a group, belief, or leader?

In Is het geen sekte? (Isn't It a Cult?), Joris Rietveld investigates how group dynamics, beliefs, and influence can work. The book invites you to look beyond the simple distinction between 'us' and 'them' and to think critically about the mechanisms that can connect people within certain groups.

An interesting book for anyone curious about group behavior, influence, beliefs, and how people arrive at certain ideas.

Why this book is interesting

✓ A critical look at group dynamics and beliefs
✓ Encourages reflection on influence and independent thinking
✓ Helps to better recognize different forms of group behavior
✓ Invites you to critically examine your own beliefs
✓ Suitable for readers interested in psychology, society, and self-awareness

Is het geen sekte? is not a book that simply tells you what to think. Instead, it prompts you to ask questions, recognize patterns, and continue to think critically yourself.

Joris Rietveld is a systemic coach, speaker, author, and podcast creator. His personal quest for truth, freedom, and independent thought forms a crucial foundation for his work.

In his book Is it not a cult? Rietveld writes from his own experience. For seventeen years, he was part of a group that initially started from his interest in kung fu, but in which he gradually became increasingly entangled in dependence, influence, and power dynamics. Only later did it become clear what patterns had developed within the group.

Rietveld uses this experience to look beyond the classic image of a ‘cult’. He investigates how power, psychological influence, and dependence can arise, and why such dynamics can also occur outside of cults. His goal is not to tell the reader what to think, but rather to encourage them to continue thinking independently, recognize patterns, and safeguard their own freedom.