How to Tell a Fake From Real True Religion
- 1). Research the history of the religion in which you are interested. Use the Internet or your public library to find as much information as possible. If the religion was created recently, consider the context of its creation and the possible intentions of its founders. If it seems cult-like or capitalistic in nature, this is likely cause for suspicion.
- 2). Research the symbology and internal structure of the religion. If it has a very complex set of symbols or a hierarchy of roles and offices, it might be legitimate.
- 3). Talk to followers of the religion. The people of the religion, if they do not try to convert you, will likely be very forthcoming with their expressions of faith and personal stories. Try to understand why they adhere to the religion; this might be valuable insight into how authentic the religion itself is.
- 4). Attend a religious gathering. If the religious service is primarily coercive and seems established merely to extort money or strange actions from its followers, be concerned. Many of the world's cults and false religions have a brainwashing effect on their followers- beware of this possibility.
- 5). Investigate the guidelines for religious legitimacy in the country or state of its origin. The political recognition of religion differs greatly around the world. Nevertheless, if a religion is recognized by a government, it is not a fake religion. This does not mean that a religion is fake if it is not recognized by a government; many governments aim to keep religion and politics as separate as possible, to ensure freedom of belief and peaceful coexistence.
Source...