This is an elaboration on “Point 1: Regulate an individual’s physical reality” under “Behavior Control” of the BITE Model Analysis.
Here we are going to explore how the organization of Jehovah’s Witnesses regulates an individual’s physical reality. Click here to go to the main article discussing the Cult BITE Model Analysis.
Members are influenced to avoid, fear and resent “worldly” people
It is important to understand that when the organization refers to worldly people, they mean ANYONE that is not a Jehovah’s Witness, no matter how decent a person might be.
Though a little time remains to live in this world, we do not have to associate with it unnecessarily. We need not let our guard down by hobnobbing with worldlings at office parties, in outings or in sports groups. (1 Cor. 15:33) Worldly people are not governed by God’s principles, and a “nice” exterior can conceal wicked intents.
Set Apart from the World – The Watchtower 1971
Non Jehovah’s Witnesses are all painted with the same brush. Witnesses are scared into thinking that even a “nice exterior can conceal wicket intents”
The world will use you, and when it is through, it will throw you away. The Bible truthfully says that the Devil is the ruler of the world—indeed its god—and that we should be loving neither the world nor the things in it. (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11; 2 Corinthians 4:4;1 John 2:15-17; 5:19) Since worldly people are existing as slaves of corruption, their company cannot bring you true happiness.
Awake 1996 October 22 p.15
“While some contact with worldly people is unavoidable-at work, at school, and otherwise-we must be vigilant so as to keep from being sucked back into the death-dealing atmosphere of this world. … Let the world go along in its way, reaping its bad fruitage in the form of broken homes, illegitimate births, sexually transmitted diseases, such as AIDS, and countless other emotional and physical woes.“
Watchtower 1987 September 15 p.12 Breathing This World’s “Air” Is Death-Dealing!
We can all agree that we live in a world where there are some bad elements, but Jehovah’s Witnesses paint all “wordly” people with the same brush, in fact they are taught that they need to be careful not to be fooled by “worldy” people who seem nice, because they might have sinister motives.
Members are unduly influenced to reject higher education and pursuing stable careers.
Jehovah’s Witnesses are constantly reminded that there is no point in gaining higher education because the end is so near. Young ones are warned not to pursue a degree or career that would not even eventuate before Armageddon comes and it would be better to spend that time serving the organization recruiting new members and donating their money to the organization instead.
The following statement was published in a Watchtower magazine in 1971. At that time there was a massive campaign in anticipation for the end to come in 1975. Many young ones heeded this advice and regret that decision today after forfeiting any opportunities to study or pursue careers that might have put them in a healthier financial position today.
All worldly careers are soon to come to an end. So, why should today’s youth get interested in ‘higher education’ for a future that will never eventuate? The colleges are falling into chaos, anyway.
The Watchtower 1971 – Set Apart from the World
When 1975 didnt come, the narrative didnt change. Today, the same impending Armageddon narrative is pushed to prevent people from spending their time and money on the organization rather than looking after themselves, even to meet their most basic needs.
Here are some more quotes from the past about education.
“Many schools now have student counselors who encourage one to pursue higher education after high school, to pursue a career with a future in this system of things. Do not be influenced by them. Do not let them “brainwash” you with the Devil’s propaganda to get ahead, to make something of yourself in this world. This world has very little time left! Any “future” this world offers is no future!”
What Influences Decisions in Your Life? – Watchtower 1969 Mar 15 p.171
A university degree may or may not improve your employment prospects. But one fact is indisputable: “The time left is reduced”! (1 Corinthians 7:29) For all its presumed benefits, would four years or more in a university be the best use of that remaining time?
What Career Should I Choose? – Awake!—1989
These are just a few quotes where the organization has persuaded many members to avoid higher education. Click here for a list of more quotes against higher education