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Organization of Religion

Cults, Sects, Denominations, and Churches

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There are a number of different ways in which religion can be organized or structured. Different types of religious systems generally rely upon different organizational structures - as a matter of fact, particular types of organizations can reveal quite a lot about the basic values and beliefs that a religion has.

Sects vs. Churches
What is a sect? What is a church? What is the difference between the two - and why does it even matter?

What is a "Cult"?
New Religious Movements, more popularly known as "cults," are a source of great interest - partly because of the loyalty they generate among people and partly because of the dangers they sometimes pose. But just what are so-called "cults?" What are some common negative and positive characteristics?

Why do pepole join "cults"?
Why is it that New Religious Movements are so attractive to some people? Why do people leave the faiths they grew up with and run off to join a so-called "cult" which is radically different from anything they were accustomed to? Is there something wrong with them, or are there valid reasons for such acts?

Further Reading About Religion

Every week there are new book reviews to be found here on this site. Many of the books reviewed deal with religion - discussions about religion generally, about religion in the United States, or about major reilgious faiths like Christianity or Islam. If you're interested in some recent books dealing with religion and religious beliefs, perhaps some of these reviews will help.

Recently Reviewed Books on Religion
Every week there are new book reviews to be found here on this site. Many of the books reviewed deal with religion - discussions about religion generally, about religion in the United States, or about major reilgious faiths like Christianity or Islam. If you're interested in some recent books dealing with religion and religious beliefs, perhaps some of these reviews will help.

Arguing About God & Religion
Does God exist? If so, what type of God exists and what does God want? Are any religions valid? If so, which one(s) and why? These are the sorts of questions debated by visitors to this site - learn more about these questions, the terms involved, and how the debates proceed.



Glossary: Religion & Philosophy
This extensive glossary provides detailed information on philosophical and religious concepts, from abandonment to Zeno of Elea! (over 2400 entries total)

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