Here’s an interesting excuse to leave the house on a midweek night.

When you hear the word “cult,” your mind probably jumps to infamous groups like Heaven’s Gate or Scientology. But cults aren’t always about religion—many operate under the guise of wellness or personal growth.

And as surprising as it may seem, they’re far more common than we realise.

On Tuesday, January 21st, you can settle in at Cyprus Avenue oon Oliver Plunkett Street in Cork City for a compelling talk on the psychology behind cults, presented by renowned psychologist and cult survivor Dr. Elizabeth Mullan.

With over 20 years of research into cult psychology, institutional abuse, and coercive control, Dr. Mullan will explore the alarming rise of these high-control groups.

In the UK and Ireland alone, there are estimated to be around 2,000 cults operating today, with 10,000 more across the pond in the United States. This growing phenomenon was dubbed a “hidden epidemic” in a 2022 report from The Family Survival Trust.

Dr. Mullan’s talk promises to shed light on why people are drawn to these groups, what keeps them there, and what leaders get out of exploiting their followers.

Grab a ticket for the 7pm Seed Talks event at Cyprus Avenue here.