>As a person named Jim it didn't go unnoticed by me that preacher Jims can do things most unChristian. You forgot the mass poisoner, who was in the same league.

Jim;

Jim Jones was considered to be a "cult" leader, which separates him with someone associated with a religion. It fact I would suggest that the extremists are cult leaders. They represent themselves and brainwash followers.

A cult:


A cult is a highly manipulative group which exploits its members. It can cause psychological, financial and physical harm. It dictates, in great detail, the behavior, thoughts and emotions of its followers. It uses different techniques to transform the new recruit into a loyal, obedient and subservient member.

Cults claim a special status for themselves or their leader that usually sets them in opposition to mainstream society and/or the family.

Cults conceal their real nature and goals from prospective or new members. They adopt deceptive behaviors in order to attract new recruits.

Cults have certain characteristics which distinguish them from other, less manipulative groups. Read through some of the characteristics* below and evaluate the group which concerns you.

Members seem over-zealous and unquestioning about the group's leader.

The leadership decides how members should think, act and feel: members must get permission to date, change jobs, get married; there are rules for what to wear, how to discipline children, where to live, etc.

The group is preoccupied with making money. Certain practices, such as collecting money for bogus charities, is justified as a means toward an exalted end.

The group's leader is not accountable to any other authorities.

Members tend to cut ties with family and friends; they give up personal goals and activities which were of interest before joining the group.

Members are encouraged or required to live and/or socialize only with other group members.

Questioning, doubt, and dissent are discouraged or even punished. Mind-numbing techniques are used to suppress doubts about the group and its leader (chanting, speaking in tongues, denunciation sessions, etc.).

* Adapted from the AFF Checklist of Cult Characteristics

It seems like terrorists meet some of the criteria of a cult. Perhaps they have a lot in common.

Tom