E9 The Role of Power and Privilege in Landmark and the Personal Development Space

"Dominance hierarchies, structures that are about people having power over other people inherently are to be questioned." ~ Exene Paloma In this conversation we question the power and privilege dynamics in the personal development space, with a focus on the Landmark Forum. Our guest, Exene Paloma, shares the experience as a former Landmark staff member and course supervisor. The conversation explores the hierarchical structure and power dynamics within Landmark and similar organizations. It discusses the influence of the source (Werner Erhard) and how his personality and ideas shape the culture of the organization. The conversation also delves into the concept of dominance hierarchies and the belief that power structures built on people having power over others are inherently flawed. Exene expresses skepticism towards top-down culture change and emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals and building structures that promote equality. In part of the conversation, Exene and Anne explore some of the manipulative tactics used in self-help programs, highlighting how these programs create an artificial environment to elicit emotional responses and then sell products or services. They also discuss the concept of integrity and how it is used as a tool for control and touch on the power dynamics within these programs and the pressure to conform to group norms. They also discuss the transferability of the insights gained in these programs to real-life situations and the limitations of self-help in addressing systemic issues. Finally, they draw parallels between self-help and marketing, highlighting the focus on personal improvement and the perpetuation of feelings of inadequacy for the purpose of ongoing sales.

RESOURCES:

We are offering group therapy sessions specifically for former Large Group Awareness Training (LGAT) and organizations or High Control Group employees, program leaders, program managers, business consultants, long-time volunteers and people who have participated with them. https://ilumn8.life/op/lgat-recovery-group/