The distinction between a cult and a religion in the United States often hinges on the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), according to UC Berkeley Professor Poulomi Saha. In an exploration of cults and their societal roles, Saha suggests that people join what they perceive as beneficial groups, which are labeled as cults when harm is involved.
Saha, who teaches a course on “Cults in Popular Culture,” encourages students to examine why such groups attract followers. The course explores how feelings of loneliness and isolation can lead individuals to seek communities promising support and belonging. According to Saha, these sentiments are common among young people, particularly on large college campuses like Berkeley.
The professor notes that discussions about cults have become more open in recent decades. Previously taboo, interest in cults has grown as society becomes more receptive to understanding their appeal. “Cults offer something that we cannot have in our normal everyday lives,” says Saha.
Historically, fascination with cults isn’t new; similar trends occurred post-World War II during times of economic prosperity and social change. Movements challenging societal norms emerged alongside traditional notions of success, leading some to explore alternative lifestyles through communal living or intentional communities.
The IRS plays a crucial role in defining religious legitimacy by granting tax-exempt status to certain organizations. This designation can be contentious, as seen with Scientology’s legal battles over its classification as a religion despite accusations of harmful practices.
“The reason that Scientology is a religion is because no one has been able to convince the IRS it shouldn’t be,” states Saha. The issue lies not in beliefs but rather in practices deemed harmful by critics.
In contemporary society, interest in cults reflects unmet needs for connection and purpose amid limited economic opportunities for younger generations. While not advocating joining such groups, Saha highlights the importance of understanding diverse perspectives without judgment.
Modern practices like yoga could also be viewed through the lens of cult-like devotion due to their pervasive influence on lifestyle choices. However, Saha emphasizes concern over potential harm rather than limiting personal happiness pursuits.
For those concerned about loved ones involved with transformative groups perceived negatively from outside perspectives: “What would happen if we tried to listen and understand?” asks Saha—a call for empathy towards differing beliefs even when disagreement persists within families or communities facing these challenges today.
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