Definition
A religious or social movement based on the false belief that mimicking the outward behaviors of a successful group will bring the same results, without understanding the underlying principles—often applied to failed imitation of business or cultural practices.
Example Usage
The startup's cargo cult approach to venture capital—copying the office perks of successful tech companies without understanding their business model—led to rapid burnout.
Origin
Named after actual religious movements in the South Pacific where indigenous peoples believed ritual recreation of Western arrival would bring cargo, following WWII military presence.
Fun Fact
The term emerged in the 1940s when anthropologists observed Pacific islanders building mock airstrips and control towers, believing this would summon planes laden with goods.
Related Terms
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See “Cargo Cult” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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