This is a bit off-topic, but I was introduced to AA by a man I was dating, going to the meetings with him. I observed how well he could parrot the philosophy and AA-speak. He was very skilled at it, though dysfunctional and corrupt in every aspect of his life, not contributing one iota to society...a real parasite to all he touched. At the same time, I also observed there were several others there much like him, and who zeroed in on the vulnerable sorts (like myself).
Bottom line with AA is that you have to be very DISCERNING about who you trust. This man who introduced me to AA ultimately broke into my house with a gun and tried to shoot me when I attempted to extricate myself from him. Needless to say, this left me cynical about AA!
I also view it as a cult-like organization, though I admit there are many who swear by it and practice the 12 steps religiously and successfully.