5 Characteristics of a Cult
1- Charismatic Leader: Cults always follow a leader whose words and ideas are considered uniquely authoritative or divinely inspired. The leader is typically a narcissistic and aggressive male. The leader may be considered a genius, a prophet or a messiah. There is often a worshipful attitude toward the leader.
2- “The Sky is Falling”: Cults typically traffic in fear. There is often a crisis that only the leader of the cult can resolve. Averting or preparing for a cataclysmic or apocalyptic event is often the primary mission. Cults will often exaggerate or even try to manufacture a crisis.
3- Extremist Beliefs: Cults tend to promote beliefs that are simplistic and extreme. Cults feed on conspiracy theories. Questioning the cult’s message is considered heresy and may result in punishment.
4- “Us Vs Them”: Cults thrive on division. Those on the outside, including family and friends, are seen as “the enemy”. Alternate ways of life are viewed as threatening. Members become increasingly isolated from mainstream society.
5- Propaganda Machine: As members slide deeper into the cult, they are met with a network of propaganda reinforcing the cult’s worldview. Outside sources of information are highly filtered and labeled untrustworthy.
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