The Rise of New Age Spirituality
Summary
Journalist Leah Sotilli discusses her book *Blazing Eye Sees All*, which chronicles the rise and tragic fall of the "Love Has Won" digital cult led by Amy Carlson. Sotilli explores how Carlson, seeking fame and spiritual significance, constructed a delusional ideology blending New Age beliefs, conspiracy theories, and anti-Semitism. The episode examines the historical roots of these movements, the vulnerability of followers during crises, and the disturbing aftermath of Carlson’s death from colloidal silver poisoning, highlighting the dangers of unchecked extremism.
Topics discussed
Sponsor message from Harmon's Grocery
Introduction to Amy Carlson and her self-deification
Author's interest in New Age culture and tarot
Amy's background and descent into conspiracy theories
Historical roots of New Thought and Spiritualism
Mythology of Lemuria and Amy's aggressive ideology
Sponsor message from Harmon's Grocery
Amy's online recruitment and appeal to followers
Comparison to Lori Vallow and Amy's tragic death
Aftermath: Followers living with the body
Love Has Won's dark ideologies and business model
American pedestal culture and legal protections
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