We define as the following organization.

• is exclusive
• claims to own special secrets
• shows a strong inclination to favor its members.

We define it as a group with the following characteristics.

• It has “carefully graded and progressed teachings”.
• Teachings are “available only to selected individuals”.
• Teachings lead to “hidden (and ‘unique’) truths”.
• Truths bring “personal benefits beyond the reach and even the understanding of the uninitiated.”