I’ve been hearing a lot of people claiming scientology is a cult… while I do think you have to be out of your fucking mind to believe in little green aliens, a bomb and a volcano.. not to mention a guy who once said “if you really want to be rich.. start a religion..” I’m not sure I agree with the whole cult statement. Anyway I was just thinking today.. is scientology any more a cult the Catholism? Thoughts… anybody?
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A cult is defined as “A religion or religious sect generally considered to be extremist or false, with its followers often living in an unconventional manner under the guidance of an authoritarian, charismatic leader.” I think that Catholics would not generally be classified as extremist or living unconventionally. They certainly have the guidance of an leader but I think the pope’s charisma and true authority over the individual people is non-existent. Under this definition though, I’m not sure that Scientology fits either. I’m not aware of a living leader of the church of scientology, I’m sure there must one but they are not very well known. Unconventional living… I really don’t know enough but I think yes. Extremist, yes as long as the beliefs that Tom Cruise spouts are in line with the church.
“Catholics would not generally be classified as extremist or living unconventionally” So if a cult gets big enough that it begins to create a social norm, (changing what is a conventional way of living) then it becomes a religion as opposed to a cult?
I suppose that would be true. Normal shifts over time.
The question would be whether all cult characteristics need to be met for a group to be considered a cult. Would the AARP, UAW, etc. be a cult?
I don’t know but PETA and ACLU are for sure.
No shit! I’d add NOW, MoveOn, and the Democrats to that list.
Democrats:
Extremist… check
False… check
Unconventional… check
Authoritarian and Charismatic leader… umm, Howard Dean? Maybe not.
yeah what Christopher said.
definately a cult.
But do they stockpile arms?
No… that would be the Republicans doing that…
haha..while the Democrats sit back and Bitch about the high oil prices!! lol
LOL, nothing wrong with a little love for the second amendment. Someone has to take care of the Democrats incase Canada decides to invade.
I’m a leg man myself…
Living right next to Occupied Clearwater, trust me, it is not only a cult, but a very dangerous one. More then one person has died already because of it. They require you to submit literally every aspect of your life to them including deciding your job, who you can marry, whether or not you can get medical help, among many other things.
http://www.xenu.net/
Scientology was made up by a science-fiction author who–in his own writings!–said that (paraphrase) “the best way to make money and fame is to create a religion, so that’s what I’m going to do.”
Scientology is not just a cult, it is a *militant* cult.
In thinking in terms of a cult, it’s my understanding with Scientology that there is “coursework” involved wherein the follower coughs up all this cash to become “clear”. If you put “Scientology” and “cult” in Google you’ll find more in-depth explanations. As for any comparison to Christianity as a cult – one might argue similarities, but at least with organized religions it’s easy to just leave. Not so much with a cult.
I have known many Scientologists and they seem to be fine. As a therapist,I looked into their procedures and think it has had a lot of bad press although personally I do not share their belief systems.
Scientology is an organization who’s goal is to get control of your life, and to benefit from that control – financially, to begin with. Call it a cult, or pick a new title. This is what they are.