taiyuu_otoko
Master Don Juan
the best answer that differentiates between cults and religions would to define one in terms of the other. Accordingly, I shall do so thusly:
Cult = a group of like minded people who share irrational and non-mainstream beliefs, which grows by recruiting adult members through various means.
Religion = a State sponsored or socially acceptable cult which has spanned many generations, and is generally socially acceptable, which grows by new members being born into the cult.
Please note, I do not believe either are good or bad. It all matters what your un met need are and if the above groups are filling those needs.
Cult = a group of like minded people who share irrational and non-mainstream beliefs, which grows by recruiting adult members through various means.
Religion = a State sponsored or socially acceptable cult which has spanned many generations, and is generally socially acceptable, which grows by new members being born into the cult.
Please note, I do not believe either are good or bad. It all matters what your un met need are and if the above groups are filling those needs.