Sects, Cults, and Spiritual Communities

A Sociological Analysis

Sects, Cults, and Spiritual Communities cover

Sects, Cults, and Spiritual Communities

A Sociological Analysis

Description

American society is culturally diverse with a variety of religious denominations, sects, cults, and self-help groups vying for members. This volume analyzes nine of these groups, chosen both for their intrinsic interest and because they illustrate a variety of sociological concepts. The groups included in this study are: Heaven's Gate, Jesus People USA, the Love Family, The Farm, Amish Women, Scientology, El Niño Fidencio, Santería, and Freedom Park. The contributors are social scientists with first-hand knowledge of the groups they examine.

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Evolution of a New Age Cult: From Total Overcomers Anonymous to Death at Heaven's Gate
Jesus People USA
The Farm
The Love Family: Its Formative Years
El Niño Fidencio and the Fidencistas
Santería
Single Women in Amish Society
The Church of Scientology: A Quasi-Religion
Freedom Park
Index

Product details

Published 30 Jun 1998
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Extent 192
ISBN 9780313390821
Imprint Praeger
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Related Titles

Environment: Staging