Monday, January 25, 2021

Now, More Than Ever, Time to Recognize the Traits of a Cult

By James Hirsen

For years the freedoms that we have enjoyed in our country have allowed us to engage in unorthodox religions, if we so chose. These same freedoms also allowed us, if we so chose, to live together with others who shared our beliefs, regardless of whether society generally considered the beliefs to be extreme or strange. Of course, those who had chosen to participate in what some in society perceived as, or even specifically designated as, a "cult" still had to abide by existing laws. Now over the course of time, the word "cult" began to be used more frequently. It also began to be applied more broadly and even took on a negative connotation, which then allowed it to be used to insult or disparage an individual or group. I contend that the word "cult" has actually crept into our common vernacular and is creating a significant problem. Because societal members think they are talking to one another, when they are really talking past one another. [more...]

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