Page "Cult" Paragraph 46

The difference between the negative and the neutral definition of the word cult has also had political implications.

In the 1970s, the scientific status of the " brainwashing theory " became a central topic in U. S. court cases where the theory was instrumental in justifying the use of the forceful " deprogramming " of cult members.

Meanwhile, sociologists critical of these theories assisted advocates of religious freedom in defending the legitimacy of new religious movements in court.

While the official response to new religious groups has been mixed across the globe, some governments aligned more with the critics of these groups to the extent of distinguishing between " legitimate " religion and " dangerous ", " unwanted " cults in public policy.

France and Belgium have taken policy positions which accept " brainwashing " theories uncritically, while other European nations, like Sweden and Italy, are cautious about brainwashing and have adopted more neutral responses to new religions.

Scholars have suggested that outrage following the mass murder / suicides perpetuated by the Solar Temple as well as the more latent xenophobic and anti-American attitudes have contributed significantly to the extremity of European anti-cult positions.