Cults

School Library Journal

Gr 6-10-Defining cults as being insular, leader-driven, apocalyptic, paranoic, doctrinaire, and often dangerous, Cohen proceeds to argue that although such groups have existed and do exist today, they are not as harmful to society as some may think. He feels that the increasing number of single-minded, scattershot attacks on cults that have spawned widespread public fear about witchcraft and satanism have lead to the persecution of innocent people. Because he believes that it is very difficult to identify a cult as such, he implies that society should concentrate its efforts on teaching people how to think for themselves instead of engaging in forced deprogramming of cult members and scaring the public about the powers of cults. His examination of cults recognizes some bona fide dangers-such as James Jones's People's Temple, David Koresh's Branch Davidians, and COG (Children of God). To show that such groups are difficult to pinpoint, the author discusses the ambiguities of the TM movement, the Mormons, and the Lubavitcher Hasids, but unfortunately he also includes some misleading information about them. And, he fails to discuss clearly dangerous secret organizations such as Synanon, the Identity Church, and the KKK. He writes forcefully and clearly and succeeds in raising valid questions about overreactions to such groups-especially in regard to satanism and child abuse-but his libertarian stance toward cults generally ignores the dangers they pose to young people.-Jack Forman, Mesa College Library, San Diego

Patricia Braun

Cohen leads off with a demonstration of the power of cults and cult leaders by discussing the tragedies that took place in Waco, Texas, and in Jonestown, Guyana. He then takes a look at the definition of cults and pinpoints several in America's early history--the Pilgrims, Quakers, and Shakers, for example--that actually helped shape the country. Turning next to modern times, he looks at other kinds of cults, including the LaRouchies, Satanists, and Moonies. The presentation is somewhat superficial, but Cohen does attempt to explain how and why cults succeed and makes it plain that determining whether a group fits the term isn't always easy. The book is an accessible jumping-off point for report writers, some of whom may find themselves at odds with some of Cohen's statements. A bibliography and chapter notes are appended.