‘American Cults’ shows how religious zealotry is huge part of US history

“American Cults: Cabals, Corruption, and Charismatic Leaders” by Jim Willis; Visible Ink Press (368 pages, $54.95) ——— What’s the difference between a cult and a church? Often, it depends on where you stand. To the believers inside, their religion provides guidance and security. To the suspicious outside, that creed often looks like a legally sanctioned way to steal. And the truth? That’s something Jim Willis tries to uncover in “American Cults: Cabals, Corruption, and Charismatic Leaders.” And he begins by pointing out that religious zealotry is as American as apple pie. “Children are taught ...