The Puritan belief system was so intrusive into every part of an individual’s life that it could be comparable to a cult type civilization. Control over every aspect of a member’s life was scrutinized and dictated by Church elders. Laws regarding everything from mandatory church attendance, style of clothing, manner of speech and social interaction were strictly enforced. Those found guilty of improper or sinful behavior were often dealt with by dealing out brutal consequences. The similarities between the Puritan beliefs, their community practices and those of the classic cult communities mirror one another to a frightening degree.
According to specialist in modern cult practices …show more content…
Since the Puritan faith was born from a breakaway from the Anglican Church of England because of its more stringent views and practices it only helps to further the proof of cult like similarities. Modern Christianity shares little resemblance to the Puritan belief system. If a group would follow the social practices of the Puritans today, they would most certainly be classified as a cult. Some of the extreme measures taken by Church elders of the Puritan faith would in fact be criminal by today’s …show more content…
Once brought into the fold of the cult community members are often encouraged to, if not made to cut ties with outside influences. This may include family, friends, and any non-believer. By separating the cult member from the outside world and any influences that may cause doubt or dissension amongst the group the cult keeps the member under the control of the cult. Puritans practiced miscommunication and banishment regularly separating families from loved ones or entire families from the community. Anyone that the elders felt were a bad influence or was not going along with the religious beliefs and laws set by the elders and council would be separated from the community so their unfavorable behavior would not spread throughout the