Cult Files - True Stories From The Extreme Edges Of Religious Belief

The Cult Files opens a fascinating window onto a number of extraordinary cults and alternative new religions. In balanced, factual accounts of events and personalities that often seem to defy reality, Mikul examines the history of the cults, their rituals and charismatic leaders, and the extremes to which their devoted followers are prepared to go in fulfilling their beliefs-regardless of the cost to themselves or to others. From the spirit of idealism and a desire to bring peace to all nations that suffused Mankind Unlimited to the madness and murder surrounding the Manson Family and Roch Theriault's Ant Hill Kids, these compelling stories are full of larger-than-life characters and elaborate mythologies, where incredible depravity co-exists with the highest of human aspirations. "The Cult Files" explores the history, features and beliefs of seventeen cults through the ages. Riveting, sometimes amusing, often horrifying stories show the inside workings of these groups, and trace their history - and often their demise. The book includes the Aum Shinrikyo followers, who killed twelve people in a poison gas attack on the Tokyo subway; and the Peoples Temple, in which Jim Jones convinced hundreds of followers to commit suicide en masse. Discover the unbelievable power and wealth held by cult leaders, and the physical and mental authority they wield over their followers. The full story of some of these cults is told for the first time in this book.