![Picture](/uploads/3/2/0/9/32094161/99459.jpg?306)
As defined by the International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) , a cult is "An ideological organization, held together by charismatic relationships, and demanding high levels of commitment". In other words, a cult is a social group established with set beliefs that entice members through different methods. Much like other social groups, the members of cults come together on common interests and goals, however cults are commonly viewed with dark undertones because of the authoritarian methods they employ. An example of an authoritarian method cults employ is that cults demand their members to loyally devote themselves to the organization and backing out of a cult is usually against its principles. Furthermore, members of cults often devote a large portion of their lives to the cult, often cutting off relationships with outsiders (even their own families!) and sometimes give their lives to the group (literally). Leaders of cults often control the actions of their members, usually placing many restrictions/guidelines on what they can or can't do.
Heaven's Gate, a cult formed in 1972 by Marshall Applewhite (nicknamed 'Do') and his partner Bonnie Lu Nettes (nicknamed 'Ti') was created on the basis that Earth would be 'recycled' sooner or later by extraterrestrial life (as a part of a cycle), and the only way to avoid death is through evacuating the planet. It is primarily viewed a cult because of the mass suicide its members committed willingly in 1997. In addition, Heaven's Gate showed cult-like characteristics such as members relinquishing their possessions and family/friends, and all the members together resided in a house in San Diego.
Heaven's Gate, a cult formed in 1972 by Marshall Applewhite (nicknamed 'Do') and his partner Bonnie Lu Nettes (nicknamed 'Ti') was created on the basis that Earth would be 'recycled' sooner or later by extraterrestrial life (as a part of a cycle), and the only way to avoid death is through evacuating the planet. It is primarily viewed a cult because of the mass suicide its members committed willingly in 1997. In addition, Heaven's Gate showed cult-like characteristics such as members relinquishing their possessions and family/friends, and all the members together resided in a house in San Diego.