It may be seen as rather superficial and subjective,
but it is still useful for both educating people and
confirming what they already suspect or know.
Although her main interests and involvements were
in the areas of consciousness raising practices, spiritual development
movements, esoteric sects and Eastern religions, much of what she has to say
can be applied to cults and cult leaders of any kind.
I am particularly interested in Joyce
Collin-Smith’s account of her dealings with the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the
Transcendental Meditation man who was spiritual guru to the Beatles. I can see
some very familiar syndromes and connections in this case.
Before we get to the Maharishi, here are some
commentaries and ideas inspired by other material of interest in this book:
Call No Man Master
Joyce Collin-Smith chose this title after
having spent much of her very long life investigating groups and cults and in
the company of various messiahs, spiritual teachers and gurus.
She became disillusioned with most of them, and
with good reason.
Many were found to be hypocritical, self-indulgent and a
danger to their followers.
