Controversies and Misconceptions
Why People are Suspicious of New Religious Movements
Necronomicon
The Necronomicon is perhaps the most well known magical book in existence, which is pretty phenomenal considering that the book doesn't actually exist. It started in works of fiction, but over the years its reputation has expanded into the real world, so much so that at least one writer created a Necronomicon in response to the regular requests...
Order of Rael's Angels
Rael's Angels are a female-only organization within the Raelian movement which prepares women to staff the Elohim embassy. Until that time, they are held up as prime examples of strong, feminine women to be role models for men and women alike.
Cult Suicides
The reality of mass suicide pacts within a small number of religious groups is the source of perhaps the greatest stigma facing new religions. The reality is terrifying, even though they are exceedingly rare. Why would any group think suicide to be the ultimate expression of faith?
Plastic Shamans
A growing interest in Native American culture and religion and has created a mentality described as plastic shamanism. Plastic shamans are considered frauds by Native Americans. Often, plastic shamans peddle their knowledge for money, and their knowledge is generally shallow or even incorrect.
Which Religions Involve Animal Sacrifice?
A complete list of religions across the world that involve animal sacrifice would be impossible to compile, as it is still a part of a variety of indigenous practices. Here is a brief overview of some of the minority cultures found in the West that still perform animal sacrifices.
Reconciling Science and Religion
While some people believe science and religion are inherently in conflict, many religions not only do not reject science but even actively embrace it.
Witchcraft
The term "witchcraft" has been used in two distinctly different contexts in history. The older definition was quite negative, while current definitions are often more neutral. This has led to substantial confusion.
Is the Westboro Baptist Church a Cult?
The highly unpopular Westboro Baptist Church is sometimes labeled as a cult. Is that a reasonable description of this extreme Christian sect?
Why is the Occult so Associated with Satanism?
For many people, the word occult is practically synonymous with Satanism. Not only is that a relatively recent phenomena, but it's not grounded in any fact. While Satanists do often participate in occult practices, they are a tiny fraction of occultists. Learn how this misleading connection developed.
Religion and the Law
What exactly does the first amendment protect or not protect? Why are certain religions allowed to do or not do certain things?
Science and Religion – Do they Conflict?
The conflict with certain religious groups over certain scientific subjects gives many the impression that religion and science inherently conflict, with many of this mindset being convinced that science has made religion irrelevant, and that religion is only for the ignorant.