Inside the Cult

This study explores the Pomio Kivung cult in Papua New Guinea, examining its mainstream and splinter groups. It presents a theory of religiosity based on cognitive psychology and cultural transmission.

Inside the Cult explores the millenarian beliefs of the Pomio Kivung cult in Papua New Guinea, which anticipates a time of supernatural bliss marked by the return of ancestors who will bring cargo. The author, Harvey Whitehouse, immerses himself in the cult, experiencing firsthand the dynamics at play as he is perceived as a reincarnated ancestor. This unique perspective allows him to delve deeply into the cult's structure and beliefs over the past three decades.

The study highlights the contrast between the mainstream organization of the cult and its splinter groups. The mainstream is characterized by a stable hierarchy and a demand for orthodoxy, while the splinter groups emerge periodically, driven by emotional fervor and innovative ideas. These smaller factions seek to hasten the arrival of the anticipated millennium, showcasing the diverse expressions of the same underlying religious ideology.

Whitehouse proposes a novel theory of modes of religiosity, drawing on insights from cognitive psychology to examine how cultural transmission and political structures influence religious practices. By analyzing the differing scales and structures of the Pomio Kivung, he reveals how these elements shape the beliefs and behaviors of the community. This work not only sheds light on the Pomio Kivung cult but also contributes to a broader understanding of religious dynamics and their manifestations in various cultural contexts.