This week we are learning about the political and religious culture of Californi

This week we are learning about the political and religious culture of California. We have specifically discussed how the idea of the “California Dream” constitutes a quasi-religious myth/belief that California is a type of “paradise” that will provide its inhabitants with a better quality of life, freedom from traditional restraints and/or financial success.
We have also discussed how the “California Dream” has attracted spiritual leaders and seekers, which has led to a long connection between California and religions outside of the mainstream. New Religious Movements, alternative religions, New Age movements and even “cults” have started here or found their way here. Part One: Why do you think that California has attracted so many new/alternative religious traditions?
1. Why, in your opinion, has California attracted so many new and alternative religious traditions and even cults? What is it about California that either attracts these leaders/spiritual communities or inspires people already in California to start these new religious traditions?
In your response to this question, you should include at least one quotation from the readings this week on the connection between California and cults.
Part Two: What is your “California Dream?” Or what do you know about why your family moved to California? Or, if your family is indigenous to California, please tell us about your California tribal connection!
1. The vast majority of Californians moved here from other parts of the country or globe. I would love to learn more about your (or your family’s) California dream! If you moved here from somewhere else, why did you choose California? Or why did you end up here? If your have lived here your whole life, what do you know about your family’s background and why your ancestors moved here (and from where)?
Alternatively, if you and/or your family are Indigenous residents of California, please tell us about your family’s background so we can learn more about the tribal communities of California!
No quotation from the reading is required for this part of your discussion!
Your initial discussion board response must be at least 600 words long and contain one direct quote from the readings.