Is Mormonism A Cult?
Expert Psychological Explanations Tell The Story
Recently I read Random Thoughts: The Appeal of Cults by Michael Embry on Medium. Michael referenced Psychologist Dr. Steve Eichel, who has a long and distinguished career in all things cultic. Since 2012 Eichel has served as the President of the Board of the International Cultic Studies Association. I note that the various criteria that Dr. Eichel suggests are also indicators of a Mormon cult, no matter how it may portray itself to the world and its members. Do any of these indicators really match Mormonism in any way? And if so, does that suggest that Mormonism is a cult, as "Cultic groups tend to try very hard to remain secretive. They don't want a lot of notoriety or negative attention." Thus 'covering up' or 'sweeping under the carpet' is the norm, in Mormon terminology, placed on a shelf or in a drawer. Note the latest uproar and tragic scandal with the recent AP report on the misuse of the so-called 'Mormon Church helpline' for abused members, which was just a way to cover up the abuse.
- "Beware of any kind of pressure. That's probably the single most important advice I can give anyone. Any kind of pressure to make a quick decision about becoming involved in any intensive kind of activity or organization."
The pressure may seem like encouragement, and at other times, it's sure-fire pressure, but being Mormon means living under intense pressure every day in many ways. For example, as much as any Mormon may suggest they only live by the Bible's Ten Commandments, there are hundreds of actual commandments. Spiritual progression and a return to Heaven are impossible without adhering to commandments that are only specific to Mormonism. For example, your return to Heaven is impossible without following 'The Word of Wisdom' or the Mormon health code. Apparently, a cup of coffee will keep you out of Heaven. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles told me many years ago, "You are free to choose, but you are only free to choose the right." In other words, you are not free to choose.
- "Be wary of any leader who proclaims him or herself as having special powers or special insight. And, of course, divinity."
From the very start of Mormonism in the early 1800s, the 'restored gospel' was miraculously found by Joseph Smith. He proclaimed himself to have special powers such as translating never before seen, or since, Golden Plates by looking at two stones in a hat! Every prophet and seer ever since has repeated likewise. In fact, at bi-annual world conferences, the world membership must sustain or certify that these men have divine or miraculous powers. If you do not, you may be eligible for 'corrective teachings' or further thought reform so you may not lose your place in Heaven.
- "The group is closed, so in other words, although there may be outside followers, there's usually an inner circle that follows the leader without question, . . . that maintains a tremendous amount of secrecy."
Although The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, known as Mormons, have signs attached to their local meeting houses or chapels that state, 'All Visitors Welcome,' as one further progresses within the Mormon organization, the groups become ever more closed. The members are taught that it is because of sacredness, not secrecy. Until recently, that secrecy or sacredness was punished by death if revealed. No Mormon can obtain a 'Temple Recommend' unless they follow the leaders without question. Monthly and yearly interviews ensure no one is rocking the boat.
- "The group uses deceptive means, typically, to recruit new members, and then once recruited will subject its members to an organized program of thought reform, or what most people refer to as brainwashing."
Over the years, the missionary program of the Mormons has always been deceptive. Initially, omitting to tell early 19th century pioneers from the UK that plural marriage or polygamy was part of Mormondom until they arrived in Utah, where many turned around and went back home or relocated elsewhere. More recently, in the 1960s and 70s, the missionary program used what became known as 'Basketball' or 'Baseball' baptisms, a complete disaster. Shortly after, the Osmonds influenced membership in the UK, at least short-term. Thought reform becomes evident within the first year of membership; the new members have the carrot of temple attendance placed before them. To obtain the 'sacred' blessings and learnings relating to entry into Heaven, one must become evermore 'dedicated.' Once there, within the temple, thought reform continues and is reinforced at every opportunity.
- "Typically cults also exploit their members….mostly financially. Within the group, they'll exploit members financially, psychologically, emotionally, and, all too often, sexually."
Again, to obtain the 'sacred' or secret teachings that will ensure a member gains entry into Heaven, they must have paid their tithing and fast offerings and any other 'donations' in full. Otherwise, sadly, they will never be with their families in Heaven! Families can be together forever, well, as long as you pay. Exploitation doesn't rest with all things financial; continual weekly, sometimes daily, thought reform is experienced. There is a moment in Mormondom when the leaders know their new converts are becoming psychologically and emotionally tied into the organization; the members start to refer to themselves as 'Us' when referring to Mormons and all things Mormon. Tragically, many Mormon members' naivety also ensures that sexual abuse is much more common than most ordinary members know. It is not until a male priesthood holder is serving in local and regional positions that the ugly side of most 'religious' organizations is seen. As with most abuse and sexual abuse cases, the authority figure has the power. Interviewing children and women behind closed doors on sexual subjects would seem appalling to outsiders, yet, in the Mormon world, it is an accepted practice. Would you be okay if your 12-year-old daughter was asked if she masturbated? Oh, and by the way, the men asking these questions have no professional training whatsoever. The guy could be a plumber, not that I have anything against a plumber, just saying.
- "A very important aspect of cult is the idea that if you leave the cult, horrible things will happen to you. This is important, and it's important to realize . . . people outside of a cult are potential members, so they're not looked upon as negatively as people inside the cult who then leave the cult."
It is apparent very quickly that if a member is thinking about leaving the Mormon church, they will be 'reminded' and counseled that in doing so, they will lose their family, not only here on earth today but also for sure in Heaven and the eternities. In my case, I also lost my job and career and was left to my own devices, struggling with severe mental health challenges that came close to taking my life on at least two occasions. Only for the love of my daughter did I survive. Eventually, when I was homeless, I needed food and clothing; I was denied. Although I had paid into the church over many years to prove my faithfulness, when the shit hit the fan, so to speak, I was turned away. Without exaggeration, except for a few good people, everyone I knew suddenly disappeared from my life and stayed away. My best friend of many years was nowhere to be seen ever again. Certainly, Mormon church leadership made it very clear behind closed doors, of course, where no one else would be privy. Two Mormon Bishops and Stake Presidents suggested I leave quietly or, as they put it, "we will destroy you." Here lies the problem: I know no member who would believe the last statement. Throughout Mormon history, the general membership allowed the church leaders to do and say anything because a) these were good faithful Christ-centered men who would never do such a thing, or b) and if they did, they would only be following the Holy Spirit and must have a good reason which we don't, as yet, understand.
So let's put it on a shelf until such a time when Jesus can explain it!
© Stephen G. Arrowsmith 2022
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