This group has been established as a forum for ex-members of destructive cults to gather and discuss ways we can help educate the public on methods of mind control and unethical influence commonly used by cults. This group’s main focus is to inform the public with well-researched information about how cults such as Branch Davidians, Heavens Gate and others can gain and retain control over their members. Let’s have educated discussions about the topic so we continue to educate ourselves, support each other in our recovery, and start doing some good in educating the general public about this very important topic. I believe it is important to understand the cult’s methods of influence, so we can protect ourselves from those attempting to abuse our idealism. I also believe these individual forms of influence are normal and used throughout society. By understanding and evaluating these methods, we will gain a better understanding of which forms of influence we personally and individually find ethical and acceptable. On this list, I will encourage respectful and kind discussion about religion, mental health issues related to mind control, recovery from leaving a cult, mind control, and commonly used mind control models, such as Steven Hassan's BITE model, Margaret Thaler Singer's books, Robert Lifton's books, etc. I will strongly discourage extreme opinions that damage our credibility with the general public, such as SRA theories. Our main purpose is to educate the public about mind control. SRA theories will only alienate us from that goal. List postings must be sober and honest. My goal is to educate about mind control, specifically as found in destructive cults, NOT about MPD/DID or satanic groups, abusive or not. DID/MPD and SRA issues are separate from this list’s goals. Disagreements should be approached with respect. We are no longer in a cult and it is ok to disagree. Flame wars or name-calling will not be tolerated.