Why are Smaller Religions so Successful

[Fat_American]

Why do smaller religions like Scientology and Judaism seem to have such successful adherents? Jews pretty much run the world, and half of Hollywood is involved in Scientology. Kinda weird how their followers have such success. Does the sense of certainty being in a religion brings help them concentrate and motivate themselves? Is it due to networking opportunities?

[Σ]

How is Judaism a small religion? Why do people think that the only religions are Christianity and Islam? This just isnt the case. As far as the success of a certain religion goes Scientology is more of a members club for rich people and the whole "jews run the world" thing is getting old. I cant even bear to say that a religions "success" can be gauged this way.

[burroughs]

I'm not a psychologist, but 2 points I'd throw out there about small groups in general:

1. You're generally held to a higher standard within your circle. There's more pressure to succeed and look good, and you can't hide as easily.
2. You know how to succeed and operate better without outside help (internal or external to the group); you're probably more self-motivated and have a thicker skin than most people because you've been instilled with an underdog spirit (however truthful it really is).

[Iceman]

Neither of those religions are small religions.   Scientology is actually quite a large "religion", however it does separate itself into tiers based on how much money you've forked over.  Leaving only a few people at the top.