” I want to go on record as strongly endorsing Steven Hassan’s approach to understanding the sources of cult power in controlling the minds and behavior of members. His now classic text on cultic mind control, Combatting Cult Mind Control (1990, Park St. Press) integrates his personal experiences in a cult with his cogent analysis of the underlying dynamic processes, and then adds in to the mix current research and theory.
…Steven Hassan’s approach is one that I value more than that of any other researcher or clinical practitioner…
Hassan is a model of clear exposition, his original ideas are brilliantly presented in a captivating style. I am confident that readers of his new book, Releasing the Bonds, will share my enthusiasm for what this author tells us about how to deal with the growing menace of cults.”
Philip G. Zimbardo, Ph.D.,
President and Founder, The Heroic Imagination Project
President of the American Psychological Association 2002 (apa.org
)
Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Stanford University
Author of Influencing Attitudes and Changing Behavior, Discovering Psychology, and Shyness
www.zimbardo.com
“Steve Hassan is a compelling spokesman on the topic of cult mind control which encompasses issues of human identity and our innate psychological vulnerabilities and dissociation and its relationship to mind control, all of which are of innate interest to mental health professionals. In addition, he educates and challenges us to think about the forces and groups using mind control techniques in our culture.”
Mary K. McCarthy, M.D.,
Assistant Professor in Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School and Faculty, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA.
Steven Hassan is one of our most eloquent defenders of freedom of the mind. For decades he has labored mightily on behalf of the majesty of the human spirit. His good work has brought psychological and spiritual relief to countless victims and families across the globe who have unknowingly stumbled into the clutches of mind control perpetrators. As a spokesperson for the ordinary individual's right to be the master of his or her own thoughts and choices, Hassan has survived the dangers and threats manufactured by manipulators who have sought to silence his courage. His new book will bring special hope for current victims, but it should be read by anyone who values the privacy and sanctity of his or her own personality.
Alan W. Scheflin, Professor of Law; Santa Clara University
Coauthor of The Mind Manipulators and Memory, Trauma Treatment, and the Law; Recipient of sixteen awards in the fields of mental health and human rights.
“Steven Hassan’s work could change the lives of millions…At the end of his specialized counseling, people report that their addiction to the cult had disappeared. This has helped the individual as well as their family members. They started to feel empowered almost immediately and today they feel better than ever. Hassan’s clients are thrilled with their new lives.”
Dr. Brian Alman
Author of Self Hypnosis and Six Steps to Freedom
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