Introduction

This paper deals with the perfectionist characteristics of the leaders of Oneida, Jonestown, and the Branch Davidian communes. John Humphrey Noyes, Jim Jones and Vernon Howell made attempts to create their version of a perfect world based on the ideals of perfectionism. Each of these men had a basic religious theology that he radically changed to fit his own needs. Each man gathered a following and withdrew from society. Each one was able enjoin his followers to accept the radical practices despite outside pressures. All three men appear to have been either emotionally or mentally unstable most of their lives. There were several methods that were used by all three men as means of control. Control is what these men seek all their lives. For Noyes, Jones and Howell control is the key to perfection.