Customer Reviews

People Who Play God: How Ultra-Authorities Enslave the Hearts, Minds and Souls of Their Victims

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I feel this book is a must read for anyone who has encountered an ultra -authority
Last year I lived in a small Korean town that had many followers of an ultra-authority.
My flatmate, friends, students and work colleagues were members.

I found Beth's book particularly useful because it examined in great detail the ways ultra-authority groups take over a person's life.

Reading the account of tactics of Jim Jones brought back some memories of my own that I had almost forgotten. Seemingly innocent events that could well have led to the group getting a toe hold on me. Presents, compliments and invitations given...all nice stuff, until you realize the people offering are followers of a man who claims to be God, praises Hitler, is wanted by Interpol charged with rape, and understands that his followers may wish to "die early" in order to claim their "heavenly reward".
The Global Association of Culture & Peace (GACP), do a google search, you'll probably find a branch at a university near you.

I wish I had read this book years ago. I would have realized in seconds instead of months that my roomate's Church was really no such thing. I could have saved her lots of stress and grief. I guess with books like these, you don't think of reading them until you notice something wrong. It's not the kind of book you read at school, but it should be.
I would like to personally thank Beth for providing me with much deeper insights into how ultra-authorities operate and flourish. And more importantly, information that I can use to help some good friends return to a life that is their own.
Beth should really be applauded for her intelligence, compassion and commitment.

I also found the examination of Hitler fascinating. I'd love for Beth to one day examine Kim Jung Il, North Korea's Dear Leader.