> > If people are brought up as members, this would mean that membership is based on bloodline rather than on merit. That lets out the Argentum Astarum, the Ancient Illuminated Seers of Bavaria, the Invisible Hand, and the Golden Dawn.
>
> Why? One can be brought up as a Christian, or one can join. Is it not possible that these could have joined?

These groups are not religions, but families or groups of families. From what I understand, marrage into a Deus Rei family (for example) does not make you a member of the Deus Rei. At least it didn't in the 13th Century when some details can be found.

Basically, the fact that you are Illuminated is (according to these groups) due to who your ancestors are (in the case of the Dues Rei, that would be Jesus), and I can't think of a way to gain new ancestors, so I assume that these groups *only* recruit from birth.

The alternative method of recruitment (used by the groups named above) is essentially meritocratic - you need to demonstrate a degree of skill in whatever field the group chooses to persue, which limits the minimum age at which someone can become a member. And thus suggests that someone cannot grow up as a member of such a group.

Of course, the children of members might be groomed for membership themselves (as the Kennedys were groomed for political office from an early age), which might be what he meant.

None of the above is meant to suggest I have any real facts about the existence of otherwise of any Illuminati or NWO group. But I've had fun chasing legends :)

winter"Fnord"mute