To everyone who gave this book a negative review, or whined about it being against organized religion, clearly didn't read the content beyound the first few pages.

The author clearly outlines a criteria for what a cult is, what kind of abuse/subjugation/exploitation a member goes through, and the kind of methodology those in control use to subjugate and victimize others.

This book perfectly describes an organizations that I know of, and another that I myself have been part of (but was smart enough to get out of.) It is a clear, straight to the point source of information. Anyone that has ever been in a cult and wants out, or anyone who has a loved one in a cult will find this book extremely helpful.

I met a an amazing girl in my Buisness class, ofcourse I asked her out to lunch several times, was always turned down, but I new something just didn't seem right. We got to be really good friends, and I found out she belonged to the Jehovah's witness Organzation. I knew nothing about the Religion, so i started to do some research, and was very intersted in what I found. I started talking on an Ex JW site, to ask for advice on what I should do, I really liked this girl, and I wanted to know what was it that made her so different from any other person I met.
Everyone told me JW was a cult, even after all the readings I did, I still hadn't made up my mind. A friend recomend I read this book, so I went ahead and orderd it. It took me a good 2 weeks to go through it, I would highlight anything I found to be of significance, cross refrence facts in the book with my Psychology TExt to check for credibility, and take notes on everything that seemed to ring a bell in my head.
I was amazed with how much this book describes how previlant occults are in our society, I came to find out I had almost fell for a Buisness Cult which I had no idea at the time was what I thought it was. This book really opend my mind, and gave me a solid foundation to help someone who has been iscolated from society, and had their individuality keep under lock and key.
I've learned so much from this book, and It has really gave me the confidance and the will to help someone out. I suggest that anyone who is about to go to college, would like to help somoene who is in a cult, or is just interested in the subject read this book, because it will outline so many things and tigh all the peices together.
Thankyou Steven for helping so many people out.
Ben

EXCELLENT book. A must read for anyone who has ever been involved in a cult, knows someone who has been involved in a cult, or is just curious about cults in general. This book provides a fascinating and freeing look into the world of destructive cults and cult mind control.

I recommend reading Hassan's "Releasing the Bonds" with this book. It contains more updated information. Both are extremely helpful for those who've been involved in cults. They are also full of necessary information for those who have lost family members or friends to cults, and want to help them.

Can't say enough about this book... definitely a life-changer!

Steve Hassan's Combatting Cult Mind Control is a compelling exegesis on the strategy and tactics of destructive cult groups and extremist movements. It also introduces a therapeutic method for bringing aid to cult victims and their families which is accessible, rational and encouraging.

Steve's command of cult practices, his extensive knowledge of sound therapeutic practice and his voluminious clinical experience make him
an excellent guide into the world of high pressure groups.

I highly recommend this book to former cult members, relatives of cult members and to therapists, counselors and social workers.

Allen Wood former chief political officer of the " Moonies" and
author of MoonStruck: A Memoir of my life in a Cult

Everyone should read this book to know the dangers of cults and mind control. It's not as unusual as one would think.