The cults may populate the intermediate cosmos between man and the absolute with any number of spirit guides, masters, space brothers or other quasientities, but the absolute itself is not the personal Judaeo-Christian God, but some more abstract entity, usually capitalized, like Infinite Intelligence , Principle , etc. Optimism, success orientation, and a tendency to evolutionary views. No doubt a part of the scientific and modern mentality, reinforced by a feeling that orthodoxy is too much devoted to other-worldly benefits, and that a faith based on present ecstatic experience ought to be able to produce benefits in this world, here and now, and a better world to come. Some may lean toward apocalypticism, some toward a slower and more evolutionary change for the better. Empahsis on healing.
Most cults provide some means for charismatic power to be applied to the healing of mind and body.
Use in many cases of magic techniques, that is, the use of nonempirical means for empirical ends. The final purpose of the cult may be ultimate transformation, but there is generally a spin-off which can be applied to secondary, finite transformations. A simple but definite process of entry and initiation, involving a definite act of separation, commitment, and study. In some cases, the establishment of a sacred center, which are like Mecca to scattered members. Emphasis on pyschic powers.