When you call an organization a cult,you are essentially saying that the members accept leadership and belief without thinking for themselves and applying rationality.

Theiel's palantir is a good example. A ton of smart people and good products but as it appears not a single person doubts the organization's mission and the horrific impact it has on society. Why? It's a cult, don't doubt leadership,just be a good hacker and hack as you're told.

To each his own. For me, I can't imagine living like that. Even in the military you can doubt and question unlawful commands/orders.

I would rather be an outcast and a failure than succeed, be well connected and accepted by the group at the price of abandoning whatever conscious and principles I have. I guess you can say I am not much of a joiner?