Describe how cults use persuasion tactics to convert followers.

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Describe how cults use persuasion tactics to convert followers.



Cult: A group typically characterized by 1) distinctive rituals and beliefs related to its devotion to a God or a person; 2) isolation from the surrounding "evil" culture; 3) a charismatic leader (a sect, by contrast, is a spinoff from a major religion.)


Groups like cults are excellent at using the tactics we've been discussing over the last few modules to gain converts. For example they may use the foot-in-the-door technique very effectively. This is why you never see cults with advertising placards that say "come join our cult."

They start with disaffected people and slowly draw them into a group that not only understands them, is willing to listen, but is also willing to offer a better way of life, salvation. The only thing you need to do is to follow the group. Once followers buy into the group in a small way they commit to learn more. Your book gives a good example of this on page 149 where Craig Silverman's experience of an encounter with Raelians are reviewed, and where your author's brother's experience is also reviewed.

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