Psychiatrist Explores Apocalyptic Violence in Heaven’s Gate and Aum Shinrikyo Cults

This presentation by Robert Lifton at the annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association explores the parallels & contrasts in the U.S. Heaven’s Gate & the Japanese Aum Shinrikyo cults. Lifton addresses the characteristics of cult leaders, the attraction cults hold for members, & the help physicians can offer cult members & their families.