What is a new religious movement, and why is the study of New Religious Movements in North America important? This book explores these key questions and introduces some of the key theoretical concerns when discussing new religious movements, known more pejoratively as “cults.”Among the new religious movements explored in this book are the Church of Scientology, the Branch Davidians, the Nation of Islam, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Topics covered include yoga, contemporary wellness and spirituality, the American Atheist, Environmentalism, Covid-19, and the anti-cult movement in America. All of these examples are explored with an eye to answering not only “what new religious movements are” but why it is important to learn and talk about new religious movements.

Over 75 illustrations are included throughout and each chapter contains suggested further reading and a glossary of key terms and concepts. The chapters in this book were first published in the digital collection Bloomsbury Religion in North America. Covering North America’s diverse religious traditions, this digital collection provides reliable and peer-reviewed articles and ebooks for students and instructors.