There is absolutely a lot of merit in what you are saying Traveler99!
I suppose that from a psychological perspective, why is it that a lot of people fail to research the groups they choose to join? Is it because they are introduced to the group by a trusted friend and so they think an internet check is not required?
Is it because reviews on internet sites lack credibility because they are anonymous?
Are people suspicious of websites that use the phrases "cult education", "cult awareness" or "mind-control awareness" or similar phrases that sound far-fetched to the average reader?
I am trying to put myself in the shoes of an innocent, unsuspecting person. If they came across this website, would they dismiss it instantly, because they already "know" that their group is not a cult. (Of course they don't know, but they don't even consider the possibility - because contemplating whether or not a group is a cult sounds ridiculous to the average citizen.)
We have the benefit of hindsight. The average punter does not have our awareness. Yes, people do look at reviews, but it seems like this is not enough to sway a person against a high demand group, especially if their first encounter with the group is positive.
Otherwise how can we explain the existence of an estimated 3,000 cults in the U.S. alone?
But don't get me wrong: I'm with you.
I suppose that from a psychological perspective, why is it that a lot of people fail to research the groups they choose to join? Is it because they are introduced to the group by a trusted friend and so they think an internet check is not required?
Is it because reviews on internet sites lack credibility because they are anonymous?
Are people suspicious of websites that use the phrases "cult education", "cult awareness" or "mind-control awareness" or similar phrases that sound far-fetched to the average reader?
I am trying to put myself in the shoes of an innocent, unsuspecting person. If they came across this website, would they dismiss it instantly, because they already "know" that their group is not a cult. (Of course they don't know, but they don't even consider the possibility - because contemplating whether or not a group is a cult sounds ridiculous to the average citizen.)
We have the benefit of hindsight. The average punter does not have our awareness. Yes, people do look at reviews, but it seems like this is not enough to sway a person against a high demand group, especially if their first encounter with the group is positive.
Otherwise how can we explain the existence of an estimated 3,000 cults in the U.S. alone?
But don't get me wrong: I'm with you.