How to Identify a Harmful Cult

Cults have a bad name. Often justifiably. All too often people involved in cults believe they’ve not only found their souls but saved them as well. History is written by the victors, it is said, and when a cult grows big and powerful enough, like say a church or political movement, it’s no longer a cult. It’s now considered the truth and the establishment. It’s then that the smaller dissident groups become called cults, much like the tiny mammals that ate dinosaur eggs and in a very real way, that’s exactly how cults evolve and replace older, more mature “cults”. So, what is a cult and how we can we know the difference between a true spiritual teaching and one that’s only interested in collecting souls like insect specimens, caught in a butterfly net of promises? Here are a few steps to take and questions to ask yourself when considering joining or studying any philosophy, ideology or system that promises salvation and/or happiness.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Does the leader or group mind insist that other, often unnamed enemies are threatening the group? Is paranoia regarded as common sense?
2. Does manipulation of sexuality figure into the groups system? The manipulation can be either puritanical or licentious.
3. Does the leader claim a direct contact with a “higher, invisible force?
4. Does the group require financial commitment beyond normal free will donations?
5. Does the group target and recruit from vulnerable populations such as the bereaved, disabled, lonely or ill? Are members rewarded for recruiting new members?
6. How much coercion is used to keep members from leaving or associating with people outside the group?
7. In what direction does power flow? Top to bottom only or is there a consensus process?
8. Apply these steps to determining the safety level of not only obvious cults, but also yoga classes, financial schemes and social action groups. Consider yourself a cult of one and remain safe.