So, I guess that's about it: A cult has people, a culture, and a minority viewpoint, and it's likely its members believe they are the chosen vessel. Other than that, it has non-members that brand them a cult. I guess that's about it.

No, it isn't. That's a naive approach to these these groups. There is a perceived or realized threat from true cults. Where do you think "drank the Koolaid" came from (though the Jonestown population actually drank "Flavoraid" before they all died)?

The David Koresh Branch Davidian Waco compound, the Jonestown (see my link above) murderous cult, they were lead by men who were charismatic, who were manipulative, who were destructive to their followers and others. There is a reason to fear cults.

We're not talking about old-fashioned hippie communes here, we're talking about the Charles Mansons of the world.