I made this blog for those doubting members of Trotskyist cults who are reconsidering their commitments. It would make sense, then, to make a post advising all those who find themselves having second thoughts about their involvement with the sordid sects of which they are a member. Here are some of the things to watch out for, obstacles on your journey to liberation, and the psychological attacks that you must prepare yourself for.
When first expressing your doubts about any point of doctrine to a senior member, you will be told that you are under party discipline’ to keep your views to yourself and not tell anyone of your doubts in private or public. After all, nothing can be seen to break the sacred unity of ‘the Organisation’, which demands complete ideological homogeneity and acquiescence on each and every issue. Prepare to be told that you are wasting the time of the organisation, sent back to re-read the ‘sacred texts’, dismissed and ridiculed.
Do not trust any member of the organisation. Loyalty to the cult is stronger than any ‘friendships’ you may have made, and should you express any doubts, they will be reported to the higher-ups. Should you leave, they will cease talking to you and slander you in private and public. Be very careful of communicating anything personal or political to such individuals. Their purpose is to monitor other members for wrongthink.
Expect an avalanche of slander from your ‘comrades’ for daring to think differently. Also remember that once you leave, this slander will continue. Any ex-member must be discredited and have their reputation thoroughly destroyed. Outright lies will be told about you and mistakes from your past magically resurrected for the purpose of blackening your name. Do not think that you are safe because you have been a loyal member for many years. Even full-timers and leaders of sections are given this treatment when they fall foul of the leadership. You are not safe.
And remember – always think for yourself!
I agree with some of your criticisms Aaron, but as an alternative perspective, I left the IMT years ago, have fiercely criticised them ever since, and, well, numerous members are still friendly to me.
There are always exceptions. I do not think this is true for most people who leave.