PSYC432

This seminar is designed to explore the social psychological underpinnings of alternative groups (religious, criminal, and political) in various societies. We will explore the mechanisms through which "cults" attract members, keep members, and in some cases lure members into behaviors they might not otherwise engage in. It is not the intention of this seminar to paint all "cults" as bad or dangerous; there have been many cult-like groups that have operated throughout history that were quite beneficial for their members. Further, we will be discussing groups which were once considered cults but would now be considered mainstream religions. This course fulfills the advanced topics requirement in the psychology major.