[jsanders2001]

> There is one other speculation which we might consider and that is the power of the group dynamic. Consider leftism, especially extreme leftism such as communism, to be cult and the adherence surrenders his individuality to the cult in return for acceptance.

And its funny that most leftists hate Christians while they’re actually engaging in a religion of their own as do athiests. I think there is some truth in the old adage that what one hates is usually one of their own traits.

[nathanbedford]

I think you are right and I think there is an explanation for it.

Christianity is essentially retail salvation. It is an individualistic religion in which one finds his salvation by interaction with God and, by surrendering his ego (picking up his cross and following Jesus) obtains heretofore unobtainable power over himself. He is made a complete individual. Rather than losing his identity he obtains freedom.

The cult, communism included, offers secular salvation by submission to the group. The salvation consists of acceptance by the group in return. The individual is submerged into the group and must let his individuality be displaced by the doctrine of the group.

Communism instinctively recognizes the liberating power of Christianity which sets the individual free from the claims of conformity and sets out to kill it.