Dear CRT Students,
Thank you for all your amazing work on week 4. Your discussion board on cults was fascinating to read. Some of you created your own cults, and others summarized interesting sources on this topic. Read about your classmates’ cults: the sneaker cult & a stop racism cult!
So, what have we learned? Elliet says, “Just like any leader, a church leader can grow to be abusive, demand submission, and extreme loyalty where if questioned the individual may be cast aside or shamed, possibly worse.” Germain adds, “Be informed (about MLMs) and cautious (in your daily activities) because cults are everywhere.” Manveer: “The steps I could take to avoid being enlisted in this cult would naturally be stay informed and educate yourself about cult practices, beliefs, and history.” Mariia: “Awareness, skepticism, and a supportive social network are crucial safeguards against falling into the grip of such groups.” Maryam: “Their leaders seek to achieve their righteous initiatives through indoctrination and subjugation of the human will.” Joan says, “And finally If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. Trust your gut feelings about an organization and its leaders.” All good tips!
I also enjoyed reading Quiz 4, with your own examples of claims and what they’re relevant to today’s world. I haven’t graded them all yet as some of you have asked for an extension.
Prof. Barnes
