I think this book makes an interesting link in the similarity between drug dependence and dependence upon a Cult, like the J.W's
A young guy I "studied" with, at the request of his father, as the young feller had just returned home having nearly killed himself with drugs, explained that the drugs alone were not what had a hold on him, it was the "culture", the "society", people he had thought of as friends, also "respect", as he was a Dealer.
The Cult communities, like the J.W's, Mormons, SDA's etc provide similar. "Friends", a different Culture, and often a boost to one's self worth.
As with the drug scene, these things have a hold beyond the drug itself, these being the teachings of the Cult, the hope of Everlasting life etc.
The young guy substituted the J.W's for the drug scene, but he still spiraled down mentally,too much damage done. He is now a psychotic wreck.