The characteristics of cults are warning signs. Warning signs don't define a cult, they are things to watch for-the typical things that cults do that are most easily recognizable or most common to a large number of cults. Any one or two or even four of those characteristics could be used for positive or negative, depending on the group and situation. However, a cult uses these characteristics solely for personal gain or at the expense of the individual.


Exactly.  For instance, in some situations thought-stopping techniques can be helpful: to meditate, contemplate, pray, help anxiety, help to clear the mind in a dangerous situation, etc.  However, cults and cult-like groups use thought-stopping techniques to prevent questioning and keep control over a person's mind.  It is not that the tools cults use are all necessarily inherently destructive.  They are merely being employed in a destructive, harmful way.

Love and do what thou wilt St. Augustine of Hippo