Hey,

Yeah AA is definitely not for everyone. Not sure about the idea that the members are stupid or lack intelligence can be backed up by any real data.

As far as being a cult or having issues with the concept of "powerless", I would generally think that those who have issues with these concepts are perhaps not desperate enough to get sober or are not even alcoholics themselves. The program acknowledges this to newcomers by singling out a specific message to people who "want what we (Sober AA members) have, and are willing to go to any lengths to get it." by offering a pretty simple program.

For me, I was at the end of my rope, and was willing to go to "any lengths" to get sober. This included joining a cult or acknowledging powerlessness, and even completely changing my perspective on spiritual matters. My old beliefs, like AA being a cult or that I was not "powerless" continued me on a path of miserable drunkenness that would have led to death or worse.

I completely understand those who reject the notion that AA is of value and has helped hundreds of thousand or more worldwide recover from alcoholism. When I was in active alcoholism, I too would make cynical comments and cast doubt beyond my own personal beliefs about AA to others. Looking back this was all part of my journey.

How is your journey treating you?

Thanks,

moogs