Defining Cults (04:23)

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Eileen Barker defines cults and new religions. Cults cannot be generalized or studied in isolation. New religions emerge from traditional movements, lie on a spectrum from fundamentalist to spirituality, and is affected by social contexts.

Historical Aspects of Cults (04:55)

Cults and sects have been predominant throughout history including Christianity and Islam. Recent waves include 19th century Christian sects such as Mormons, Seventh Day Adventists. Since World-War II, over 1,000 new religons have emerged including the Moonines, Unification Church, and the Children of God.

Characteristics of New Religions (10:35)

New religions differ according to beliefs, practices, and lifestyle. Baker outlines characteristics of first-generation new religious movements.

New Religion Changes (01:55)

Baker explores how new religions change over time. Revisionism in the theology, prophecy revision, schisms, and challenging of Utopian lifestyles.

Demographic Changes (902:59)

New religion movement leaders die leading to increased accountability and predictability. Original member mature and new generations arrive and cohort boundaries dissolve.

Social Change (06:24)

Social changes have an indirect on new religious movements. Wars and terrorist attacks shift the attention from cults to terrorism. General cultural and moral changes occur with the influence of the internet.

Credits: 21st Century Cults (00:24)

Credits: 21st Century Cults