Is the Christian Science religion considered to be a "cult?

It's a word that is loosely applied to many different religious/spiritual groups that stray from the mainstream. "The term often creates fear and loathing among the public, and contributes greatly to religious intolerance in North America. The word "cult," particularly as used by the media, carries a heavy emotional content. But should you fear Christian Scientists?

With my apologies for oversimplifying an entire faith: Christian Scientists are a group of Christians with 115,000 members + spread out all over the world. They practice the main tenants of Christian worship, but are noted for their exceptional belief that Jesus/God will heal all ailments through prayer. As a result many CSs will not seek medical treatment when needed, but will attempt forms of spiritual healing and prayer as alternatives.

Some Christian Scientists seek professional medical treatment for health maintenance, but not for healing. Generally, CSs do give credit and creedence to medical professionals and scientists, though they choose not to rely on them. Additionally, they worship the writings and teachings of their founder, Mary Baker Eddy (1879), which is contrary to the beliefs of many Christians who contend that no Christian groups should observe prophets other than what the Bible describes.

Other than controversial familial decisions made about health, is there anything to fear about them? They make no greater efforts to recruit than other Christian groups, and to not promote harm or hatred toward others. What is a cult anyway?

So what is a cult? Can Christian Science qualify? It depends on who you talk to!

Or (egads!) any non-Christian religion (see Wicca, Hinduism, etc.). These groups are usually classified additionally as Satanic or evil. But even if we discard this very broad and sweeping definition of a "cult", and look at a more secular definition, it is up to the wielder of the word "cult" as to whether that includes groups that place high demands on their followers, new religions formed in the past 100 years, those that isolate their followers, or those that instruct suicide and murder from their followers.

According to most of these definitions, no, Christian Science doesn't fit. But in the end, it is up to you. Just remember the words of J.

"When someone uses the word 'cult,' it usually says more about them than the group.".