The Case Against the Groups

Study of Mind Development Groups, Sects and Cults in Ontario

PREFACE INTRODUCTION HISTORY DEFINITIONS THE PHENOMENON DEPROGRAMMING THE DEBATE The Case Against the Groups The Case Against the Critics ONTARIO RECOMMENDATIONS CONCLUSIONS

Some critics say there are no essential differences among the groups that come within the confines of this study or other movements of heir ilk. When shed of the stubborn diversities typologists may find, they all are cults. Moreover, these critics' definition of the term "cult" signifies an elitist group that engages in deceitful recruiting and mind control, isolates its members from society, severs their relationships with family and friends, and has as its central function the satisfaction of its leader's desire for money, power, or some other form of aggrandisement. To achieve these ends, movements need members with a level of devotion pitched so high that they are prepared to direct every energy to the service of their leaders. It is in the recruiting and maintenance of that membership and the generation of the required level of devotion that the groups allegedly employ techniques that most provoke their critics.

Some critics say there are no essential differences among the groups that come within the confines of this study or other movements of heir ilk.