The Cult of Trump by Steven Hassan

The Cult of Trump: A Leading Cult Expert Explains How the President Uses Mind Control by Steven Hassan

A provocative psychological analysis of political influence, loyalty, and the power of persuasion. In The Cult of Trump, mental health counselor and cult expert Steven Hassan draws on decades of experience studying authoritarian groups to explore how Donald Trump’s leadership mirrors the dynamics of destructive cults.

About the Book

Hassan, a former member of the Unification Church (“Moonies”), applies his BITE model (Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotional control) to examine how Trump’s rhetoric, media strategy, and public persona foster intense devotion among followers. He draws comparisons to figures like Jim Jones and David Koresh, arguing that Trump’s tactics—such as repetition of slogans, demonization of outsiders, and manipulation of truth—fit classic cultic patterns.

Rather than diagnosing Trump, Hassan focuses on the psychology of his supporters and the mechanisms that make people susceptible to authoritarian influence. The book also offers tools for helping individuals disengage from harmful belief systems and reclaim critical thinking.

Key Themes

• Mind control and psychological manipulation in political contexts
• Parallels between cult leaders and populist figures
• The role of media, fear, and identity in shaping group loyalty
• Strategies for recovery and resistance to coercive influence

Perfect For

Readers of political psychology, cult studies, and social influence. This book is especially relevant for those seeking to understand the emotional and cognitive dynamics behind political polarization and mass persuasion.

Publisher

Free Press | ISBN: 9781982127336 | 320 pages | Published: October 15, 2019