I have had first hand experience. I work with several people who are active scientologists. I don't believe what they do but I respect their religion, as does the us government. I also have friends that have been missguided and are actively members of other "cults". I am not saying some cults aren't as you describe I am saying that they are not that way ingeneral. I don't really want to argue, but yes I do have first hand experience with members actively involved in "cults". We have something called freedom of religion in this country. I am sure you would be upset if someone insulted your religion. I am leaving this now, I didn't intend to start a debate just clarify a few items.