This book investigates the nature, emergence, and impact of cults and new religious movements. It addresses fundamental questions about what constitutes a cult, the reasons behind their formation, the demographics of their adherents, and the causes of catastrophic events associated with them, drawing on scholarly perspectives from history, sociology, and psychology of religion.

This collection is presented as a broad-ranging, balanced, and clearly organized reader, intended to address key questions about new religious movements. The editor's introductions aim to situate the readings within current discussions, suggesting a pedagogical or analytical purpose for the compilation. The inclusion of diverse scholarly voices indicates an effort to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject matter.