Define “idea cult” and share a few examples, either from the text or from yourown perspective/experience.

An "idea cult" is a term used to describe a group of people who are intensely devoted to a particular idea or set of ideas, often to the point of being dogmatic or unyielding in their beliefs. This term is often used in a negative context to describe groups that are seen as being overly rigid or extreme in their adherence to certain ideas.

For example, in the world of business and entrepreneurship, one might describe the "cult of the startup" as an idea cult. This refers to the intense devotion that some people have to the idea of starting their own business, often at the expense of other aspects of their lives. They may believe that this is the only path to success and fulfillment, and may be unwilling to consider other perspectives or possibilities.

Another example could be the "cult of celebrity" that exists in many modern societies. This refers to the intense fascination and obsession that many people have with celebrities and their lives. This can often lead to unrealistic expectations and unhealthy comparisons.

In the realm of politics, one could argue that certain extremist groups or movements could be described as idea cults. These groups are often characterized by a rigid adherence to a particular ideology, and a refusal to consider other perspectives or engage in meaningful dialogue.

From a personal perspective, I have seen idea cults in action in the world of academia. There can often be a "cult of the PhD", where the pursuit of a doctoral degree is seen as the ultimate goal and the only path to success in certain fields. This can often lead to unhealthy work-life balance and a lack of consideration for other career paths.