Definitions
There are 2 meanings of the phrase
Cargo Cult.
Cargo Cult - as a noun
(melanesia) the followers of one of several millenarian cults that believe salvation will come in the form of wealth (`cargo') brought by westerners; some ascribe divine attributes to westerners on first contact (especially to missionaries)
A religious cult that anticipates a time of joy, serenity, and justice when salvation comes
Example Sentences
"Some cargo cults have developed elaborate rituals and customs with the aim of attracting modern goods and technology."
"The cargo cults emerged in the Pacific islands during World War II as a response to the sudden arrival of military supplies."
"Anthropologists have studied cargo cults to understand the social and cultural dynamics behind their formation."
"The cargo cult phenomenon reflects the desire for economic progress in societies that have been marginalized or isolated."
"Many cargo cults believe that by performing specific rituals they can summon the gods or ancestors to bring them material wealth."
