Question

5 identifiable characteristics of a cultist

Answer 1

Answer:

The word cult is defined as a system or group of people who practice excessive devotion to a figure, object or belief system, typically following a charismatic leader. The term is commonly connected with highly unorthodox religious sects that take part in sinister practices and demonstrations. In some cases, this is true; however, cults can be non-religious too.

So what makes a group a cult? One characteristic that we reviewed already is that there tends to be a leader that the group follows with unquestioning faith. The leader supports and preaches a particular doctrine, belief system or ideology that members adhere to. Members are usually so committed to this belief system that they are easily persuaded to commit unethical if not illegal acts that have been deemed justifiable by the leader. Let's take a look at two examples that highlight some of these key characteristics of cult culture and their often dangerous behaviors.

In 1967, Charles Manson founded the cult known as, 'The Family'. This is one of the few examples of a nonreligious but dangerous cult. Manson believed that the United States would soon fall into an apocalyptic war between the races. He recruited members and brainwashed them into believing that after the race war was over, they would be asked to lead the country into the dawning of a new age. This supposed war was not happening quickly enough for Manson and in order to speed up the process he successfully convinced his followers to commit a series of brutal murders. Eventually, they were caught, and Manson was sentenced to life in prison