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What is a cult? Why do they emerge? Who joins them? And why dotragedies such as Waco and Jonestown occur? This reader bringstogether the voices of historians, sociologists, and psychologistsof religion to address these key questions about new religiousmovements. Looks at theoretical explanations for cults, why people joinand what happens when they do. Brings together the best work on cults by sociologists,historians, and psychologists of religion. A broad-ranging, balanced and clearly organized collection ofreadings. Includes coverage of topical issues, such as the 'brainwashing'controversy, and cults in cyberspace. Section introductions by the editor situate the nature, value,and relevance of the selected readings in context of currentdiscussions.