Malcolm Rivera
*American Horror Story: Cult* delves into the political landscape of the United States, particularly in the aftermath of the 2016 presidential election, by exploring themes of fear, manipulation, and the rise of extremist ideologies. The season uses the lens of a cult led by the charismatic and unhinged Kai Anderson to examine how political polarization, social media, and societal anxieties can be exploited to gain power and control. Through its portrayal of characters from various political backgrounds, the show critiques both sides of the political spectrum, highlighting the dangers of unchecked extremism and the erosion of truth in an era of fake news and propaganda. By blending horror with real-world political tensions, *Cult* serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of democracy and the ease with which fear can be weaponized for political gain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Exploration of Extremism | Depicts cults as extreme political movements, mirroring real-world examples like Jonestown and Heaven's Gate. |
| Manipulation of Fear | Shows how fear is used to control and manipulate followers, a tactic often employed in political rhetoric. |
| Cult of Personality | Centers on a charismatic leader (Kai Anderson) who resembles authoritarian figures, exploiting followers' vulnerabilities. |
| Division and Polarization | Highlights societal divisions and the rise of tribalism, reflecting contemporary political landscapes. |
| Media Influence | Explores the role of media in shaping public opinion and spreading misinformation, a key political theme. |
| Gender and Power Dynamics | Examines the subjugation of women and the toxic masculinity often associated with political extremism. |
| Post-Election Anxiety | Directly inspired by the 2016 U.S. presidential election, capturing the nation's political and social unrest. |
| Symbolism and Propaganda | Uses symbols and slogans to manipulate followers, akin to political campaigns and movements. |
| Mental Health Stigma | Addresses how mental health issues can be exploited by political and cult leaders. |
| Resistance and Rebellion | Portrays characters resisting the cult, symbolizing political dissent and the fight against oppression. |
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What You'll Learn
- Trump's Influence: Examines how Trump's presidency inspired the season's themes and characters
- Fear & Control: Explores the use of fear as a political tool in the narrative
- Gender Dynamics: Analyzes the portrayal of women in power and their political struggles
- Media Manipulation: Highlights the role of fake news and propaganda in the storyline
- Resistance Movements: Discusses the depiction of political activism and rebellion against authority
Trump's Influence: Examines how Trump's presidency inspired the season's themes and characters
The seventh season of *American Horror Story: Cult* is a stark exploration of the political and social climate following the 2016 U.S. presidential election, with Donald Trump’s presidency serving as a central catalyst for its themes and characters. The season directly engages with the polarization, fear, and manipulation that characterized Trump’s rise to power, using it as a backdrop to examine how authoritarianism and cult mentality can take root in a divided society. Trump’s influence is palpable in the season’s portrayal of a nation fractured by political ideology, where fear is weaponized to control the masses—a tactic often associated with Trump’s rhetoric during his campaign and presidency.
One of the most direct links to Trump’s presidency is the character of Kai Anderson, the cult leader played by Evan Peters. Kai is a thinly veiled representation of a Trump-like figure: a charismatic, manipulative leader who exploits societal fears and insecurities to gain power. Like Trump, Kai uses inflammatory language, stokes divisions, and preys on the vulnerabilities of his followers to build a loyal base. His rise mirrors Trump’s ability to tap into the anxieties of a segment of the population, particularly those feeling left behind by globalization and cultural shifts. Kai’s cult is a microcosm of the broader political cult of personality that Trump cultivated, where loyalty to the leader supersedes rationality or morality.
The season’s exploration of fake news, media manipulation, and the erosion of truth is another clear reflection of Trump’s influence. During his presidency, Trump frequently dismissed unfavorable news as “fake news” and undermined trust in traditional media institutions. In *Cult*, Kai and his followers similarly manipulate media narratives, spreading misinformation to control public perception. This theme resonates with Trump’s strategy of discrediting journalism and creating an alternate reality for his supporters, blurring the lines between fact and fiction. The character of Beverly Hope, a journalist who becomes entangled in Kai’s cult, symbolizes the struggle of the media to maintain integrity in the face of such manipulation.
Trump’s presidency also inspired the season’s focus on fear as a political tool. Kai exploits fears of immigration, terrorism, and societal collapse—issues that were central to Trump’s campaign and policy agenda. The cult’s use of clowns as a symbol of terror echoes the way Trump amplified fears of “the other” to rally his base. Additionally, the character of Ally Mayfair-Richards, a woman suffering from phobias who becomes a target of the cult, represents the vulnerable and marginalized in society, who are often scapegoated in times of political upheaval. Her struggles highlight how Trump’s rhetoric disproportionately affected those already living with anxiety and fear.
Finally, *Cult* examines the psychological impact of living in a politically charged era, a direct response to the stress and division of Trump’s presidency. The season portrays characters driven to extremes by the constant state of fear and uncertainty, reflecting the real-life mental health consequences of a polarized political landscape. Trump’s presidency, with its relentless controversies and divisive policies, created an environment where many felt overwhelmed and powerless—a sentiment captured in the season’s dark and unsettling tone. By intertwining Trump’s influence with its narrative, *Cult* serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked authoritarianism and the fragility of democracy in the face of fear-based politics.
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Fear & Control: Explores the use of fear as a political tool in the narrative
In *American Horror Story: Cult*, the theme of Fear & Control is central to its exploration of politics, illustrating how fear is weaponized as a tool to manipulate and dominate. The narrative, set in the aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, delves into the psychological and societal impacts of fear-mongering, mirroring real-world political strategies. The cult leader, Kai Anderson, embodies the archetype of a demagogue who exploits collective anxieties to gain power. By manufacturing threats—ranging from clowns terrorizing the neighborhood to orchestrated acts of violence—Kai creates an environment of constant fear, positioning himself as the only source of safety and stability. This tactic is a direct reflection of how fear is used in political rhetoric to consolidate control, often by scapegoating marginalized groups or exaggerating external dangers.
The show’s portrayal of fear as a political tool is particularly evident in Kai’s manipulation of his followers. He preys on their individual insecurities, such as Ally’s phobias or Meadow’s feelings of inadequacy, to break down their resistance and make them dependent on his leadership. This mirrors real-world political strategies where leaders amplify societal fears—whether economic instability, crime, or cultural change—to foster a sense of vulnerability and urgency. By controlling the narrative of fear, Kai effectively dismantles critical thinking and fosters blind loyalty, a tactic often employed by authoritarian figures to maintain power. The cult’s members become so consumed by fear that they willingly surrender their autonomy, highlighting how fear can erode democratic principles and individual agency.
Another critical aspect of the narrative is how fear is used to fracture communities and sow division. Kai exploits existing social tensions, such as racial and class divides, to pit neighbors against each other. This strategy is reminiscent of political tactics like “us vs. them” rhetoric, where fear of the “other” is leveraged to unite a base while marginalizing dissenters. The show’s depiction of the cult’s rise to power underscores how fear can be used to dismantle solidarity, making it easier for a single figure or group to dominate. By controlling the narrative of fear, Kai not only gains followers but also eliminates opposition, demonstrating the destructive potential of fear as a political instrument.
The role of media in amplifying fear is also a key element of the narrative. Kai strategically uses social media, public speeches, and even local government positions to disseminate his message of fear and control. This reflects the real-world impact of media manipulation, where misinformation and sensationalism are used to shape public perception. The show critiques how fear-based narratives can be spread rapidly and widely, often with little regard for truth, to achieve political ends. By controlling the flow of information, Kai ensures that his version of reality becomes the dominant one, further entrenching his power.
Ultimately, *Cult* serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of allowing fear to dictate political and social dynamics. The narrative exposes how fear, when weaponized, can erode trust, dismantle communities, and pave the way for authoritarianism. By exploring the mechanics of fear and control, the season offers a sharp critique of political strategies that exploit human vulnerabilities for power. It challenges viewers to recognize how fear is used as a tool in their own realities and to resist its manipulative grip, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and unity in the face of divisive tactics. Through its chilling portrayal of a fear-driven cult, the show underscores the fragility of democracy and the need to safeguard it against those who would exploit fear for control.
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Gender Dynamics: Analyzes the portrayal of women in power and their political struggles
The seventh season of *American Horror Story: Cult* delves into the political psyche of America, using the lens of a fanatical cult to explore themes of power, control, and gender dynamics. Central to this exploration is the portrayal of women in power and their political struggles, which are depicted with both nuance and provocation. The character of Ally Mayfair-Richards, played by Sarah Paulson, serves as a focal point for examining how women navigate political and social landscapes dominated by patriarchal structures. Ally’s journey from a vulnerable, anxiety-ridden woman to a leader of the cult reflects the complexities of female ambition in a society that often undermines it. Her rise to power is both a triumph and a tragedy, as it is achieved through manipulation and violence, mirroring the systemic barriers women face in real-world politics.
The character of Kai Anderson, Ally's counterpart and the cult leader, further highlights the gender dynamics at play. Kai’s toxic masculinity and authoritarian tendencies contrast sharply with Ally’s more calculated and emotionally driven approach. Their relationship underscores the tension between male dominance and female agency in political spaces. Kai’s manipulation of Ally initially positions her as a victim, but her eventual takeover of the cult challenges the notion that women in power must conform to masculine norms. However, the show also critiques the idea that women must adopt oppressive tactics to succeed, as Ally’s actions ultimately perpetuate the cycle of violence and control she sought to escape.
Beverly Hope, the ambitious journalist played by Adina Porter, offers another perspective on women in power. Her struggle to maintain relevance in a male-dominated industry reflects the real-world challenges faced by women in media and politics. Beverly’s alliance with Kai and her eventual betrayal of him demonstrate the precarious balance women must strike between collaboration and resistance in patriarchal systems. Her character arc highlights the sacrifices women often make to achieve power, including compromising their values and integrity. Through Beverly, the show critiques the limited options available to women in political and professional spheres, where success often comes at a moral cost.
The portrayal of women in *Cult* also intersects with broader themes of motherhood and domesticity, which are often weaponized against women in politics. Ally’s role as a mother is repeatedly used to undermine her authority, both by external forces and within the cult itself. This reflects the societal expectation that women prioritize family over ambition, a double standard not applied to men. The show’s depiction of motherhood as both a source of strength and vulnerability adds depth to its analysis of gender dynamics, illustrating how traditional gender roles are used to police women’s political aspirations.
Ultimately, *American Horror Story: Cult* uses its portrayal of women in power to comment on the systemic barriers and internalized struggles that shape their political journeys. The characters of Ally, Beverly, and others are not presented as flawless heroes but as complex individuals navigating a world that resists their ascent. Through their stories, the show critiques the patriarchal structures that limit women’s political agency while also examining the moral compromises often required to overcome these barriers. By doing so, *Cult* offers a provocative and instructive analysis of gender dynamics in politics, challenging viewers to reflect on the realities faced by women in power.
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Media Manipulation: Highlights the role of fake news and propaganda in the storyline
In *American Horror Story: Cult*, media manipulation is a central theme that underscores the political undertones of the season. The storyline explores how fake news and propaganda can be weaponized to control public perception, sow discord, and manipulate vulnerable individuals. Kai Anderson, the cult leader, strategically uses media to spread fear and misinformation, mirroring real-world tactics employed by political figures and extremist groups. By creating and disseminating false narratives, Kai exploits the anxieties of his followers, demonstrating how media can be distorted to serve a dangerous agenda.
The role of fake news in the season is exemplified through Kai’s character, who leverages social media, local news outlets, and even public speeches to disseminate his ideology. He fabricates stories about threats to safety and stability, preying on the fears of his community. This tactic highlights how misinformation can be tailored to resonate with specific audiences, particularly those already disillusioned or marginalized. The show illustrates that when media is used irresponsibly, it can erode trust in legitimate institutions and replace facts with fear-driven narratives, a phenomenon increasingly relevant in contemporary politics.
Propaganda is another critical element in the cult’s rise to power. Kai and his followers use symbols, slogans, and orchestrated events to create a sense of unity and purpose among their members while demonizing outsiders. The cult’s use of propaganda is reminiscent of historical and modern political movements that employ similar strategies to consolidate control. By controlling the narrative, Kai ensures that his followers remain loyal and insulated from opposing viewpoints, showcasing how propaganda can be used to manipulate emotions and suppress critical thinking.
The season also critiques the role of mainstream media in perpetuating division and hysteria. Characters like Beverly Hope, a reporter, initially contribute to the spread of fear by prioritizing sensationalism over factual reporting. This portrayal serves as a commentary on how media outlets can inadvertently amplify harmful narratives, especially during times of political turmoil. The show suggests that when media fails to uphold journalistic integrity, it becomes a tool for those seeking to exploit societal fractures.
Ultimately, *Cult* uses media manipulation as a lens to examine the fragility of democracy and the ease with which public opinion can be swayed. By depicting how fake news and propaganda are used to create a cult of personality around Kai, the season warns of the dangers of unchecked misinformation. It encourages viewers to critically evaluate the media they consume and recognize how political actors can exploit it to achieve their goals. Through its chilling portrayal of media manipulation, *Cult* highlights the importance of media literacy in safeguarding against authoritarianism and division.
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Resistance Movements: Discusses the depiction of political activism and rebellion against authority
Resistance Movements in *American Horror Story: Cult*
American Horror Story: Cult delves into the complexities of political activism and rebellion against authority, portraying resistance movements as both a force for change and a reflection of societal fractures. The season is set against the backdrop of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, a period marked by deep political polarization. Through the character of Ally Mayfair-Richards, the show explores how individuals are radicalized into resistance, often in response to perceived oppression or fear. Ally, initially a liberal-leaning citizen, becomes a symbol of grassroots activism as she organizes against the oppressive regime of Kai Anderson, the cult leader who mirrors authoritarian figures. Her journey highlights the emotional and psychological drivers behind political rebellion, emphasizing how personal trauma and collective anxiety can fuel organized dissent.
The cult itself serves as a twisted inversion of a resistance movement, blurring the lines between activism and extremism. Kai Anderson manipulates the language of rebellion, co-opting slogans of anti-establishment sentiment to consolidate power. This depiction warns of the dangers of unchecked resistance movements, where the line between fighting for freedom and succumbing to authoritarianism becomes dangerously thin. The show critiques the exploitation of genuine grievances for personal gain, illustrating how movements can be hijacked by charismatic leaders who prioritize control over collective well-being. Through Kai’s rise, *Cult* underscores the importance of ethical leadership and clear goals in any resistance effort.
At the same time, the season portrays legitimate acts of rebellion, such as the women’s resistance group led by Beverly Hope. This group represents a more focused and principled form of activism, targeting Kai’s regime while maintaining a commitment to justice. Their struggle highlights the necessity of unity and strategy in effective resistance movements, contrasting sharply with the chaotic and self-destructive nature of Kai’s cult. Beverly’s eventual betrayal of Kai symbolizes the internal conflicts within resistance groups, where personal survival often clashes with ideological purity. This duality reflects the real-world complexities of political activism, where success requires balancing individual interests with collective goals.
Cult also examines the role of fear in mobilizing resistance. Kai exploits societal anxieties—from phobias to political instability—to recruit followers, demonstrating how fear can be weaponized to suppress dissent or incite rebellion. Conversely, Ally’s transformation from a fearful victim to a resistant leader shows how fear can also catalyze empowerment. Her character arc suggests that resistance movements often emerge from a place of vulnerability, as individuals band together to reclaim agency. However, the show cautions that fear-driven resistance can easily spiral into paranoia and violence, undermining its original purpose.
Ultimately, *American Horror Story: Cult* uses its portrayal of resistance movements to comment on the fragility of democracy and the dual nature of rebellion. It argues that while resistance is essential for challenging oppressive authority, it must be grounded in clear values and ethical principles to avoid becoming the very thing it seeks to destroy. By depicting both the noble and dangerous aspects of political activism, the season encourages viewers to critically examine the motivations and methods of real-world resistance movements. In doing so, *Cult* serves as a cautionary tale about the power and peril of organized dissent in politically charged times.
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Frequently asked questions
*AHS: Cult* is considered political because it directly addresses themes like polarization, fear-mongering, and the rise of extremist ideologies in the aftermath of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, using allegory and satire to comment on real-world political tensions.
The season mirrors real-life political events by depicting a cult leader exploiting societal fears and divisions, similar to how some political figures use rhetoric to manipulate public opinion. It also explores the impact of media and fake news on public perception.
While the season critiques aspects of both political extremes, it primarily focuses on the dangers of authoritarianism and the manipulation of vulnerable individuals, rather than explicitly favoring one party over another.
The season highlights the dangers of unchecked power, the erosion of trust in institutions, and the psychological effects of living in a politically divided society. It also warns against the normalization of violence and fear as tools for control.
