An 'ethical cult,' as conceptualized by Jamie Wheal, is a collective endeavor that consciously seeks to harness the inherently potent dynamics of belonging, shared purpose, and transcendent experiences, while rigorously adhering to principles of integrity, consent, and transparency. Unlike traditional cults that often devolve into coercive and manipulative structures, an ethical cult prioritizes individual agency, fostering environments where members are empowered to explore their highest potentials both personally and collectively. Grounded in a commitment to ongoing ethical scrutiny and mutual accountability, such groups aim to create spaces where transformative growth can flourish without compromising the well-being and autonomy of their participants.
See also: soul force, peak experience, peak performance, flow state, alchemist cookbook