“Writing for a penny a word is ridiculous. If a man really wants to make a million dollars, the best way would be to start a religion.” L. Ron Hubbard
While reading this short statement by founder L. Ron Hubbard the hidden intentions of the organization of Scientology become clear to everyone. The science fiction author Hubbard, who was born as Lafayette Ronald Hubbard on March 13th in 1911 in Tilden, Nebraska/USA, wanted to earn big money. I chose this current topic because Scientology is still the centre of attention. Celebrities like Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes and John Travolta draw the attention of the media to Scientology. Regularly Tom Cruise and his comments and alleged actions are the focus of public attention. Is Tom Cruise one of the most powerful Scientologists in the world? Does he really eat Katie Holmes’ placenta? Was the daughter of Cruise conceived by using Hubbard's frozen sperm?
Table of Contents
1. What is Scientology?
2. Organization and Objectives
3. Tactics and Controversy
4. Celebrity Involvement and Public Image
5. Theological and Sociological Classification
6. Final Assessment and Conclusion
Target Objectives and Themes
The primary research objective of this work is to critically examine the nature of Scientology by investigating whether it operates as a legitimate religious institution or a manipulative, potentially dangerous commercial organization characterized by cult-like practices.
- The financial and structural motivations behind the organization's inception.
- The methods used to control and suppress former members (drop-outs).
- The role of celebrity endorsements in enhancing public legitimacy.
- The socio-political conflicts regarding its classification as a religion versus a sect.
- The ethical concerns regarding human rights violations within the organization.
Excerpt from the Book
What is Scientology?
“Writing for a penny a word is ridiculous. If a man really wants to make a million dollars, the best way would be to start a religion.” L. Ron Hubbard
While reading this short statement by founder L. Ron Hubbard the hidden intentions of the organization of Scientology become clear to everyone. The science fiction author Hubbard, who was born as Lafayette Ronald Hubbard on March 13th in 1911 in Tilden, Nebraska/USA, wanted to earn big money. I chose this current topic because Scientology is still the centre of attention. Celebrities like Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes and John Travolta draw the attention of the media to Scientology. Regularly Tom Cruise and his comments and alleged actions are the focus of public attention. Is Tom Cruise one of the most powerful Scientologists in the world? Does he really eat Katie Holmes’ placenta? Was the daughter of Cruise conceived by using Hubbard's frozen sperm?
Scientology is still a highly divisive issue. Through the huge public interest in the cult of Scientology during the last years it is necessary to get to know more about this alleged religion. It is necessary for everyone to learn about the dubious tactics of Scientology. Now I want to clear up the myth of Scientology a little bit. Therefore I have to tackle some problematic questions: What is Scientology really about? Why is it still popular with celebrities? Do Scientology members lead a charmed life? Why do anonymous groups attack Scientology?
Summary of Chapters
1. What is Scientology?: This chapter introduces the founder L. Ron Hubbard and outlines the initial skepticism regarding the organization's true financial and ideological motives.
2. Organization and Objectives: This section details the claims of the organization regarding human spirit rehabilitation while contrasting them with the restrictive and secretive nature of the group.
3. Tactics and Controversy: This chapter analyzes the aggressive methods used against critics and defectors, including legal threats and the practice of isolation.
4. Celebrity Involvement and Public Image: This section explores how the organization utilizes famous figures to promote its image and maintain influence.
5. Theological and Sociological Classification: This chapter discusses the academic and legal struggles to define Scientology, weighing the perspectives of religious scholars against those of state institutions.
6. Final Assessment and Conclusion: This chapter summarizes the finding that Scientology functions as a totalitarian system and expresses concern regarding its potential danger to modern society.
Keywords
Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, Cult, Religion, Dianetics, Engrams, Celebrity, Anonymous, Human Rights, Fair Game, Black Propaganda, Sect, Suppression, Totalitarian, Controversy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this work?
The paper examines the organization of Scientology to determine its true nature, investigating whether it is a legitimate religion or a manipulative commercial entity.
What are the central thematic areas discussed?
The themes include the history of the organization, the influence of celebrity members, the questionable treatment of drop-outs, and the ongoing global debate over its classification as a religion.
What is the main research question?
The core question is whether Scientology is a blessed religion, a fanatical cult with criminal ambitions, or simply a manipulative money-making organization.
Which scientific methodology is applied?
The work utilizes a descriptive and analytical approach, synthesizing information from media reports, former members' testimonies, and academic/sociological viewpoints.
What issues are addressed in the main body?
The body covers the psychological techniques used (Dianetics), the aggressive handling of critics, the financial aspects, and the legislative challenges faced by the organization globally.
How would you describe this work using keywords?
The work is best characterized by terms such as Scientology, cult, manipulation, human rights, and religious controversy.
What role does L. Ron Hubbard play in the critique?
Hubbard is identified as the architect of the organization, whose personal ambition for wealth and power shaped the totalitarian structure of the movement.
How does the author interpret the case of Lisa McPherson?
The author presents the death of Lisa McPherson as a severe example of human rights violations and a demonstration of the dangerous consequences of the group's isolation practices.
Why is the "Anonymous" group mentioned?
The group "Anonymous" is highlighted as a contemporary force of resistance that uses digital means to expose and protest against Scientology's tactics.
What is the author's final conclusion regarding Scientology?
The author concludes that Scientology presents a realistic danger, functioning more as a totalitarian system than a standard religious community.
- Quote paper
- Jeannette Nedoma (Author), 2008, What is Scientology? , Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/126507
