Cult

There are a few characteristics that can clearly describe a cult, authoritarianism, exclusivism, isolationism, opposition to independent thinking, fear of being disfellowshipped, and threats of satanic attack. Authoritarianism involves the acceptance of an authority figure who exercises excessive control on cult members. As prophet or founder, this leader’s word is considered ultimate and final. Often this authoritarianism involves legalistic submission to the rules and regulations of the group as established by the cult leader. Cult members are fully expected to submit, even if they do not agree with the requirements. Unquestioning obedience is compulsory. Cults often believe that they alone have the truth. The cult views itself as the single means of salvation on earth, and to leave the group is to endanger one’s soul. The more extreme cults sometimes create fortified boundaries, often precipitating tragic endings. Some cults require members to renounce and break off associations with parents and siblings. Other cultic groups discourage members from thinking independently. The thinking aspect has already been done for them by the cult leadership. The proper response is merely to submit. It is not uncommon in cults that people are urged to remain faithful to avoid being disfellowshipped or disbarred, from the group. Finally, some cults use fear and intimidation to keep members in line. Members may be told that something awful will happen to them should they choose to leave the group. Others may be told that Satan will attack them and may even kill them, for they will have committed the unpardonable sin. Such fear tactics are designed to induce submission. Even when people do muster enough courage to leave the group, they may endure psychological consequences and emotional baggage for years to come. All of these aspects perfectly mirror the Nature Religions and the Branch Davidians. Although individuals may try to hide the exact resemblance of a cult, there is no denying that authoritarianism, exclusivism, isolationism, opposition to independent thinking, fear of being disfellowshipped, and threats of satanic attack exist in these religions.