“DesirousOfChange”: “All JWs have been told (by HQ) is that they are the fastest growing religion, . . . they the "little one" that will become a thousand, . . . only they evangelize over 1 BILLION hours, . . .”
Well, actually any supposed “increase” is primarily just the result of the birthrate of born-ins. The WTS is known for its “clever” manipulation of statistics, and they don’t exactly advertise the throngs either slipping out the back door (fading) or parading right out the front door (disassociating). Don’t forget: only 36% of born-ins remain in the cult. (Gee, I wonder why. )
“Iown Mylife”: “Just be really nice to people and visit them and show interest in their life stories, then they will feel obligated to go along with what you want, which is to give money, and find other people to give money, to the org which claims to represent the Creator of the Universe.”
In relation to any standard business model, this would be called a “pyramid scheme,” which is understandably an illegal form of exploitation. However, unfortunately, as it is classified as a “religion,” thus enjoying the protection of “ecclesiastical privilege” under the secular laws, including tax-free status, it can effectively get away with what amounts to a global pyramid scheme. And they don’t even have to pay their workers any salary. With that and the power they have to threaten and execute disfellowshippings, I’d say that they have a pretty good thing going. . . . at least while operating in such a tolerant capitalist system – and they milk it for all it’s worth!