New religious movement

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== New Religious Movement ==

A New Religious Movement (NRM) is a religious, ethical, or spiritual group or community with practices of relatively modern origins. NRMs may be novel in origin or part of a wider religion, in which case they are distinct from pre-existing denominations. NRMs often form as a response to the perceived inadequacies of mainstream religious institutions and may offer alternative spiritual paths.

Characteristics

NRMs are characterized by their innovative religious practices, beliefs, and organizational structures. They often emerge in response to social, political, or cultural changes and may attract followers who are seeking new spiritual experiences or answers to existential questions. Common features of NRMs include:

• **Charismatic Leadership**: Many NRMs are founded by charismatic leaders who claim to have special insights or divine revelations.
• **New Scriptures**: NRMs often produce new religious texts or reinterpret existing ones.
• **Alternative Lifestyles**: Some NRMs promote alternative lifestyles, communal living, or unique rituals and practices.
• **Millenarianism**: Many NRMs have eschatological beliefs, predicting significant changes or the end of the world.

Examples

Some well-known NRMs include:

• Scientology
• Mormonism
• Rastafari movement
• Falun Gong
• Unification Church

Controversies

NRMs often face controversy and opposition from mainstream society and established religious institutions. Common criticisms include:

• **Brainwashing and Mind Control**: Critics often accuse NRMs of using manipulative techniques to control their members.
• **Financial Exploitation**: Some NRMs have been accused of exploiting their followers financially.
• **Isolation**: NRMs may encourage members to isolate themselves from non-believers, including family and friends.

Academic Study

The academic study of NRMs is a multidisciplinary field that includes sociology, anthropology, religious studies, and psychology. Scholars aim to understand the social, cultural, and psychological factors that contribute to the formation and growth of NRMs.

See Also

• Religion
• Cult
• Sect
• Spirituality
• Charismatic authority
• Millenarianism

Related Pages

• Scientology
• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Rastafari movement
• Falun Gong
• Unification Church
• Religion
• Cult
• Sect
• Spirituality
• Charismatic authority
• Millenarianism