The Dream Do Cults Like Us?
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Jun 7, 2025 Jane Borden, an author and journalist specializing in religious studies, dives into the shocking connections between America's Puritan roots and modern cults. She suggests that the doomsday mindset of the early Pilgrims shaped the nation’s cultural landscape. Discussing the psychological dynamics of cults, she reveals how isolation can lead to violent behaviors. Borden also connects historical beliefs to current political rhetoric, showing that America's obsession with wealth and divine favor continues to influence contemporary cults.
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America's Cult Roots
- America was largely founded by groups like the Puritans and Pilgrims, who shared cult-like, doomsday beliefs.
- These beliefs became embedded in secular American culture and subtly influence society today.
Puritan Doomsday Control
- The Puritans' doomsday ideology was central: they believed Armageddon was imminent.
- They maintained strict behavioral control, such as forbidding swearing or interrupting the minister.
Puritan Punishments
- Punishments included stocks, pillory, branding, and clipping ears or tongues.
- One man was banished back to England through a brutal 'spank tunnel' of musket butts.