Time Schedule:
James A. Kitts
SOC 345
Seattle Campus
Examines controversial religious groups often called cults. Use sociological lenses to examine cults' occasionally catastrophic conflicts with government authorities, established religious organizations, and anti-cult movements.
Class description
This course will examine controversial religious groups that are often called 'cults.' In describing cults, popular media have focused on armed confrontations, mass suicides, and alleged satanic conspiracies. They have portrayed cult members as coerced or brainwashed, unable to save themselves from abuse and control. In contrast, many social scientists have investigated cults as social movements, advocating unconventional beliefs in a world that is often hostile to innovators. With rigorous sociological lenses, we will examine cults� occasionally catastrophic conflicts with government authorities, established religious organizations, and anti-cult movements. As we engage this controversial material, we will refine our skills in writing cogent argumentative essays.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
