Unlike malicious cults, AA doesn't seem to be dedicated to exploiting its members for the benefit of cult leaders. I think you are on to something, which is th

Unlike malicious cults, AA doesn't seem to be dedicated to exploiting its members for the benefit of cult leaders. I think you are on to something, which is that providing connection can help people to overcome addiction. (Or perhaps the reverse - that addiction can help people cope with a lack of connection.) If AA is the only source of connection, then I imagine losing it might very well result in relapse simply from losing the connection itself (not to mention the encouragement to remain sober.)