Exploring the multifaceted landscape of modern groups and movements is an endeavor that reveals diverse and often intriguing facets of human behavior and belief systems. While the term “cult” can be pejorative, it is essential to examine groups and movements with distinctive characteristics that may raise questions and concerns. In this exploration, we delve into 18 such contemporary phenomena that have garnered attention for their unconventional practices and beliefs. This collection offers insight into the complex dynamics of these groups and invites reflection on the notion of what defines a group as “cult-like.”
NXIVM
A self-help organization turned scandalous cult that exhibited manipulative practices and pyramid-like structures, promoting the leadership of Keith Raniere. It was deemed cult-like due to its secretive, coercive nature and the exploitation of its members.
Heaven’s Gate
A UFO-based cult led by Marshall Applewhite, which tragically ended in a mass suicide event. It was considered a cult due to its strict beliefs, isolation from mainstream society, and followers’ extreme actions.
Scientology
Founded by L. Ron Hubbard, Scientology has been criticized for its secretive practices, aggressive recruitment techniques, and its classification as a destructive cult by some experts.
Aum Shinrikyo
A Japanese doomsday cult led by Shoko Asahara, responsible for the deadly Tokyo subway sarin gas attack in 1995. It exhibited cult-like behavior through mind control, apocalyptic beliefs, and violence.
Landmark Forum
Previously known as est, this personal development program has been criticized for its intensive and coercive group dynamics, which some argue resemble cult-like behavior.
Raelism
A UFO-based movement founded by Claude Vorilhon (Rael) that claims to have contact with extraterrestrial beings. It is considered cult-like due to its unconventional beliefs and hierarchical structure.
Freemasonry
Though not inherently harmful, Freemasonry has been criticized for its secretive rituals and exclusivity, which can give it a cult-like aura to some outsiders.
Sahaja Yoga
Founded by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, this movement is seen by some as exhibiting cult-like behavior due to its strict beliefs, devotion to the founder, and controversial practices.
Landmark Education
A personal development company associated with Landmark Forum, it has faced criticism for its aggressive marketing, high-pressure tactics, and reported cult-like characteristics.
Raëlian Movement
Founded by Claude Vorilhon, it promotes the belief in extraterrestrial creators and cloning. Some view it as cult-like due to its unconventional beliefs and rigid hierarchy.
Synanon
Initially a drug rehabilitation program that turned into a cult under the leadership of Charles Dederich, exhibiting cult-like practices such as isolation, control, and abusive behavior.
Esther Hicks and Abraham-Hicks
Known for the Law of Attraction teachings, some critics have labeled it cult-like due to its strict adherence to Hicks’ channeling of “Abraham.”
Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (Osho) Movement
Led by Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, this group was considered cult-like due to its communal living, authoritarian control, and controversies surrounding criminal activities.
The Source Family
A 1970s commune led by Father Yod (James Baker), exhibiting cult-like behavior through its communal living, strict hierarchy, and secretive practices.
The Center for Feeling Therapy
A controversial encounter group therapy center led by the Pragers, it was criticized for its intense, confrontational techniques and control over members’ lives.
Democratic Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge)
While a political regime rather than a traditional cult, it displayed cult-like attributes through extreme authoritarianism, mind control, and forced conformity.
Nxivm offshoots and related groups
Various offshoots and related organizations tied to NXIVM, like DOS, have displayed cult-like characteristics, including extreme secrecy, coercion, and exploitation of members.
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