The Elements of Management in Destructive Apocalyptic Groups on Selected Examples

The subject of destructive cults has repeatedly occupied public attention. Often, this has been caused by the dangerous situations caused by spectacular collective suicides, killing those who dare criticise them or the acts of terrorism force one to reflect upon the essence of their activities as well as upon the dangers related to them. What are the characteristic features of these groups and how are they organised also proved to be important. A major place among them is occupied by apocalyptic sects, focusing their attention in a special way on issues connected with the end of the world, in which they are often supposed to play an important role. Among them, one can distinguish following groups: 1) referring to Christianity; 2) drawing inspiration from Far Eastern religions; 3) inspired by the belief in UFO; and 4) related to the New Age. Despite their doctrinal diversity, there are some similarities in their management. Understanding the governance mechanisms of these organisations, forms of leader-ship as well as disturbing doctrinal features, can help to identify the dangers associated with their activities.