Explore techniques used by everyone from Tele-Marketers, Cult-Recruiters, and Terrorists, to influence thinking and behavior. Through a series of interactive demonstrations and case studies, you will become aware of why one's defenses fail and how critical thinking can be derailed. This fascinating program will make you street smart, enhance critical thinking skills and provide tools to cope with peer pressure and manipulation.
Zalman Kravitz
Today, many people assume that destructive cults have gone the way of childhood polio and the dodo bird. This is a dangerous and false assumption. Cults have not disappeared, although many have undergone effective cosmetic makeovers and now fly under our radar. According to recent estimates, there are now over 5,000 cults operating throughout North America. The lives of countless people are being negatively impacted by these insidious groups. Because the common perception of the cult phenomeno
Zalman Kravitz
Many college students and students "doing their year" in Israel have contacted Jews for Judaism to speak about run-ins they have had with missionaries and cult recruiters. It may have been someone they met on the street, at a cafe,in the library or cafeteria or over the Internet, and often, at college, by a roommate, dorm-mate or new "friend" from class. It is often referred to as "friendship evangelism". A Jewish student is befriended by a warm and outgoing Christian or recruiter. As rapport a
Zalman Kravitz
Q: What characteristics define a cult? A: Cults, or more specifically, destructive cults, are characterized by the following differences from mainstream groups: 1) In religious cults the leader is the central focus of belief. In mainstream religions, G-d is the central focus. 2) Cult recruitment includes deception and concealment of identity and requirements of affiliation. Mainstream groups use no deception and new members are fully aware of the teachings and expectations before they make a
Zalman Kravitz
Stressful circumstances such as school problems, loss of a romantic relationship, confusion over career goals, financial pressure, disillusionment, etc. can cause sudden vulnerability. Needy people are not as discerning as they might ordinarily be, and are easy prey for a deceptive, alluring recruiter.
Zalman Kravitz
Both cults and missionary groups continue to grow at a rapid pace. Twenty years ago there were a few thousand members of a handful of cults and not more than a few thousand Jews in missionary groups. It is estimated that more than 20 million people have been involved in cults since the 70’s and as many as half a million Jews are now involved with missionary groups.
Zalman Kravitz
Cult or Cult-like? On a number of occasions we have referred to the Hebrew-Christian or "Messianic Jewish" movement as a cult or cult like. Some have protested that we are stretching it a bit when we classify these groups in the same category as some of the real cults. Are these cults cult or cult-like? Let's find out. One can well understand the widespread reluctance to refer to the Hebrew-Christians as a cult. After all, these groups are bankrolled by well-known Christian denominations and
Zalman Kravitz
This guide is intended to teach you about the tactics used by missionary groups and cults. The tactics of missionaries and missionary groups may vary, but there are some basic guidelines to keep in mind that will be helpful in dealing with them. CAMOUFLAGE Some missionaries attempt to develop a rapport with their subject without divulging their own religious affiliation. If you are not sure about the religious identity of the stranger who begins talking to you about religion, ask him directly
Zalman Kravitz