Isn the word “cult” a pejorative label used to discriminate against new religious movements?
No. It is disingenuous to ignore the historical significance and modern day applications of the word cult. Today many controversial groups, that have been called “cults”, are seeking to either eliminate the word, or create through fear of litigation a reluctance to use the term. Some cult apologists have literally said that “‘cult’ is a four letter word”–and should be replaced by the politically correct title “new religious movement” (NRM). However, historically cults have always been with us and they continue to be a part of the world today.
