Is Mormonism a Cult?

A few nights ago, at Christmas Party, I was talking to a couple of Brits who moved to Park City 15 years ago. After discussing our embattled president, the subject turned to religion and of course Mormonism that is so close to our daily lives.

They said “this is a cult”. I had forgotten about that label, but after thinking it over, I must agree that our local “religion” is just like these many new movements that have taken roots in in America in a recent past, like Scientology and the like. Mormonism offers metaphysical revelations impossible to substantiate in an age of enlightenment.

Of course, the recipe's success requires a charismatic founder gutsy enough to preach an absurd message while keeping a straight face. Furthermore, the leadership keeps on exercising utmost control upon its faithfuls by systematically brainwashing young kids and their parents, bullying, and other shaming techniques to get and retain full control.

The same leadership will get right into its flock's personal, social and working life, all the way to wardrobe recommendations.

For the creed to succeed, indoctrination is intense, doesn't allow any dissent and those who disagree or threaten the movement are not just apostates, but dangerous individuals that must be shunned.

This often leads to family splits, including spousal or children estrangement and even suicide. Given how the spiritual life wraps up a person, those who dare to leave have much to lose and the majority stays put.

All these symptoms point clearly towards assimilating Mormonism to a bona fide cult, not a religion. As I always say: “Religion is irrational, Mormonism is absurd.”