Background Information
A cult is a religious or social group whose beliefs and practices are considered deviant. Use the following sources to learn more about the characteristics of cults and the role of cults throughout history.
- CQ Researcher This link opens in a new windowThis tool gives overviews of major topic areas (including cults). Find articles, lists of other resources, as well as Pro and Con sides for most topics.
- International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral SciencesFeatures articles and biographies contributed by scholars from around the world on a wide array of global topics in the social sciences, including cults.
- The Wiley-Blackwell Encyclopedia of Social and Political MovementsOver 400 entries on global political and social movements of the last two centuries, including a reference section on cults.
- Encyclopedia of Sciences and ReligionsThis source follows a question-answer format with entries sorted by A - Z throughout the work. Entries are also cross-referenced with related topics.