Is Religion Just a Matter of Choice of Human Free Essay Example, 1750 words

The potential recruit is involved in many meetings and activities and this adhesion process is known as fascination . In Belgium, it has been called a prison term where beatings, violence, threats and psychological manipulation is used to persuade an individual. Geneva states that the freedom of the member is violated. Coercion and imposition of religious beliefs lead to psychological damage. It is even a waste of emotional and psychological energies (Wright 1984, p. Walsh (2001, p. 121) cites several papers that have reported the use of mind control and coercion with negative psychological consequences including a study of 102 patients with prior involvement with religious cults, confirming the use of techniques similar to the brainwashing techniques used in Communist China during the 50s. Entertainment is seen as corrupting and the members are allowed information that is group originated (Walsh 2001). This alienates the members from the society at large and serves to estrange the cult members families. The members are even dictated how to think, act and feel. Wright (1984, p. 172) cites several studies where participation in religious movements takes people out of their social network and career paths and it could hinder one s educational and occupational opportunities. We will write a custom essay sample on Is Religion Just a Matter of Choice of Human or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/page Why should one have to undergo an exit therapy to leave a cult? Those that defect voluntarily explain the greater levels of tolerance and understanding.