What’s the difference between a group of people that live and work together to achieve a certain standard of physical, mental and spiritual well-being, and a full-fledged cult? Presented by Showtime
The group appeared to be a positive force on its members – yet the documentary tells a story of sexual, psychological and emotional abuse that allegedly took place behind-the-scenes at Buddhafield. On the surface, it looked like Allen found his place in a group of happy, healthy, like-minded individuals – but underneath, the community had problematic secrets.
Yet communes, for many, evoke the potential for groups to become more controlling and sinister in nature. Many of the most notoriousin America started in the mid-20th century yet remain vividly in the public consciousness because of their bizarre and sometimes violent practices. These groups originated as offshoots of established religions or were influenced by social and civil movements.
As a former member of the Unification Church – also known as “Moonies” after the founder Sun Myung Moon – Hassan has firsthand experience with the thought process behind both joining and ultimately leaving a closed community. Yet it’s not necessarily just cults that attract people in search of guidance, like Allen and Hassan. Disillusioned at 21, Sara Benincasa found herself drawn to a job at a spiritual retreat in eastern Pennsylvania that aims to combine modern influences with classical tradition and world cultures. Like many young people, Benincasa – now a 36-year-old writer and comedian – was under the impression that surrounding herself with the right people and ideas could help her find direction in her life.
“Just because something is a religious retreat center that doesn’t engage in abusive practice doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s a great place,” Benincasa says. “When you go to a place that promises some kind of peace, that’s a really dangerous promise to make because everyone’s peace is different. They can promise you quiet and uninterrupted time, but they can’t promise you peace or happiness.”
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