Scientology: Salvation or Scam?

In the mid-20th century, a doctrine was born in the USA that still sparks polar opinions and heated debates. Scientology is not just a religion or philosophy; it is a phenomenon that combines elements of science fiction, psychotherapy, corporate structure, and show business. It has gathered millions of followers, including Hollywood stars and ordinary people searching for meaning in life. At the same time, it has become the subject of high-profile exposés, legal battles, and international criticism.

Scientology is often seen as a product of its time: post-war America, caught in the search for new ideals, spirituality, and methods of self-discovery. It was a time when science and technology seemed capable of explaining everything, while traditional religions increasingly failed to provide answers to the troubling questions of modernity. It was then that Lafayette Ron Hubbard emerged — a man who decided to combine esotericism with logic, religious symbolism with practical techniques, and mysticism with money.

Thus, Scientology was born — a doctrine that some call the greatest breakthrough in understanding the human soul, while others call it a dangerous pseudoscience. Its history is both a struggle for recognition, marketing tactics, faith, and financial strategies.

So, what lies behind this word — Scientology? Why do some see it as a path to enlightenment, while others see it as a trap? Let’s try to figure it out, leaving behind clichés and rumors.

Who created Scientology and why?

The founder of the movement was Lafayette Ron Hubbard — a science fiction writer, philosopher, and, without exaggeration, a genius marketer. Before the emergence of Scientology, he was known for his science fiction novels and his charisma, which allowed him to inspire thousands of people. In 1950, he published the book "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health", which instantly became a bestseller and gave birth to a true self-help cult in post-war America. People were eager to understand themselves, find support, and learn how to cope with their inner traumas. Hubbard offered something revolutionary — a system where a person becomes their own therapist, guide, and judge of their life.

It was from the ideas of Dianetics that a full-fledged religious system — Scientology — later grew. This was no longer just a practice, but a comprehensive doctrine claiming to explain the universe and the nature of the soul.

What did Hubbard propose?

• The concept of the human being as a thetan — an immortal spiritual being who experiences multiple lifetimes.
• The method of spiritual cleansing through auditing — something between confession and psychoanalysis, but with technical equipment.
• The journey along the "Bridge to Total Freedom" — a step-by-step spiritual path, where each stage is accompanied by new practices, courses, and, as a rule, paid levels.

Hubbard claimed that by following his system, a person could acquire superpowers, free themselves from past traumas, and even influence the material reality. This very idea — to become the master not only of one's own life but also of the surrounding world — became a magnet for thousands of followers around the world.

The Structure of the Church of Scientology: A Clear Hierarchy

The Church of Scientology operates like a well-oiled corporation. It has its headquarters in Los Angeles, its own universities, schools, and centers around the world. Inside, there is a strict hierarchy, discipline, and its own logic for advancing through the steps of spiritual growth. According to some estimates, the church has about 25,000–30,000 active members in the United States and 50,000–55,000 worldwide, although the official numbers of the organization are much higher.

To become a Scientologist, a person usually starts with a free stress test or an introductory lecture. After this, they are offered introductory courses such as "The Communication Course" or "The Basics of Dianetics". Despite the enticing start, even at this stage, the newcomer may be asked for a "voluntary donation" — amounts ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. Progressing along the "Bridge to Total Freedom" involves a series of mandatory courses, auditing levels, and purchasing expensive materials.

The sources of income for the organization include:

• Paid courses and auditing (some levels can cost tens of thousands of dollars)
• The sale of books, audio materials, and equipment (including E-meters)
• Donations, especially from wealthy members
• Volunteer work and members of the Sea Org, who often work for symbolic money or for free

Some devotees sign a "billion-year contract" and become part of the Sea Organization, dedicating their entire life to serving the church. Scientology also actively engages in missionary and commercial activities, spreading its courses through personal growth centers and business training programs around the world.

There are dozens of organizations within the church, including:

1. 01. Church of Spiritual Technology
   Owns the rights to Hubbard's works.
2. 02. Church of Scientology International
   Manages the activities of all subsidiary organizations.
3. 03. Flag Service Organization
   Located in Florida — an elite center for training and auditing.
4. 04. Sea Org
   An internal structure where members take an oath of service for a billion years and live under strict discipline.

Core Ideas and Principles of Scientology: Philosophy, Technologies, and Symbols

Sciology is not just a religion, but a whole system of views, practices, and symbols that help followers overcome personal and spiritual difficulties. In this section, we will explore the key elements and concepts that form the foundation of Scientology and explain its uniqueness.

1. 01. The ARC Triangle (Affinity, Reality, Communication)
   The ARC Triangle is a central concept in Scientology that explains how the key aspects of human life interact. These are three components that directly affect every person's everyday existence:

• Affinity
  Mutual liking, friendliness, and love. According to Scientologists, the higher the level of affinity in relationships, the more successful and harmonious they will be.
• Reality
  The perception of what happens around. Scientology claims that each person's reality is subjective and can be altered depending on their perception and understanding.
• Communication
  The ability to perceive things and events without bias or distortion. Openness to new ideas and experiences makes it possible to perceive the world objectively.
  The interaction of these three components allows a person to achieve harmony and progress on the path to spiritual freedom.

1. 02. The Scientology Cross: A Symbol of Faith
   The Scientology Cross is an important symbol representing spiritual ascent and the path to liberation. It combines elements of traditional Christian symbols, but carries a special meaning in the context of the teachings of L. Ron Hubbard. It is not just a cross, but a symbol of the transition from the material world to a higher state of consciousness.
2. 03. Dynamics: Eight Spheres of Life
   In Scientology, there are so-called eight dynamics—different areas of life in which a person must achieve balance and harmony. These dynamics cover all aspects of human existence, from personal relationships to entire civilizations and the universe. Each dynamic is important for spiritual growth:

• First Dynamic — the individual person and their personal existence.
• Second Dynamic — family, intimate relationships, and procreation.
• Third Dynamic — groups, such as friends, colleagues, and communities.
• Fourth Dynamic — humanity as a whole.
• Fifth Dynamic — other forms of life, including animals and plants.
• Sixth Dynamic — the spiritual world.
• Seventh Dynamic — the universe and cosmos.
• Eighth Dynamic — infinity, the absolute universe.
  Each dynamic plays a unique role in the process of self-development.

1. 04. Concepts of God: Non-traditional but Important
   In Scientology, there is no traditional understanding of God as a supreme being, as in Christianity or other religions. Instead, Scientology presents the concept of the thetan—an immortal spiritual being that is the source of consciousness and power. The thetan is something more than the soul, and Scientology views spirituality as a path to the full liberation of the thetan from material limitations.
2. 05. Cosmology and Eschatology: Views on the Universe and Human Destiny
   Scientology cosmology covers the teaching of the origin and structure of the universe. According to it, the universe was created by the thetans and their civilizations, and its current reality is merely a reflection of their spiritual experiences and decisions.
   Eschatology — the doctrine of the end of the world and the fate of humanity. Scientology asserts that the goal of every person is to achieve the status of "Clear" (see below), after which spiritual freedom and liberation from all earthly limitations are attained. The traditional idea of the end of the world, as found in other religions, is absent here, with the focus instead being on personal development and transformation.
3. 06. The Bridge to Total Freedom
   The Bridge to Total Freedom is a step-by-step system of spiritual growth, consisting of multiple levels through which a person ascends by undergoing various courses and auditing (sessions with an auditor). Each level requires the completion of specific practices that help a person achieve new levels of awareness and liberation from past traumas and engrams. At the higher levels of the Bridge, "secrets" and knowledge become accessible, which are unavailable to ordinary practitioners.
4. 07. Clear: The Ideal Person
   Clear is a term used to describe a person who has passed through all the levels and freed themselves from all engrams. This is the ideal state in which a person is free from all mental and emotional blocks, achieving absolute freedom and control over their life. Such a person becomes "free," and their abilities are limitless.
5. 08. Clear Body and Clear Mind: Physical and Spiritual Purity
   In Scientology, it is asserted that spiritual cleansing is impossible without physical cleansing. The purity of the body and mind are inextricably linked. An important aspect is the pursuit of the state of Clear Mind—a level at which a person begins to realize their thoughts and experiences and control them.
   Clear Body means the removal of "energetic pollutants" that hinder the free flow of spirituality. Many Scientology methods, such as auditing, aim to achieve this state.
6. 09. The E-Meter: A Device for Spiritual Purification
   The E-Meter (electropsychometer) is a device used during auditing sessions. The E-Meter tracks the body's reaction to emotional experiences and blocks. Its readings help the auditor identify traumatic moments in a person's life that need to be worked through. While the device itself is merely a scientific tool, in the context of Scientology, it is viewed as something much more significant—a means for spiritual purification and liberation.
7. 10. Radiation: Energy and Spiritual Power
   Scientology also introduces the concept of radiation—a kind of energy that a person radiates at various levels of spiritual development. The higher the level, the more spiritual power and influence a person can emit. This concept suggests that a person can impact the surrounding world and even others, creating positive or negative energy.

Scientology is not just a philosophy or a religion, but also a whole system built on unique methods and concepts. Each of its elements creates a holistic picture, which includes symbols, practices, and goals. This system promises its followers not only spiritual enlightenment but also complete control over their lives.

How does auditing work?

Auditing is the core practice of Scientology. It is based on the idea that a person accumulates painful experiences in their subconscious — engrams. These mental traces, left by painful or traumatic events, according to Scientologists, prevent a person from living freely and fully. To get rid of them, Scientology offers a special form of spiritual practice — a series of sessions with an auditor, a professionally trained assistant who helps identify and eliminate hidden blockages.

How it works in practice

• You are connected to a device called the E-Meter (electropsychometer), which measures changes in skin resistance — something like an emotion detector.
• The auditor asks you questions aimed at identifying emotionally charged moments from the past.
• The device records even the slightest physiological changes while you recall details of events.
• The goal is to "discharge" the emotional charge associated with these experiences, making them neutral.

Scientologists believe that after multiple auditing sessions, a person becomes a "Clear" — meaning completely cleansed of destructive engrams. This practice is not based on medical or psychological principles as commonly understood, but on Hubbard's own developments. Despite the external similarities with psychotherapy, Scientology rejects traditional medicine and scientific psychology, which has led to criticism from professionals.

How do ordinary Scientologists live: rules, rituals, and daily life

Life of an ordinary Scientologist does not differ much from that of followers of other religions or philosophical systems. However, there are certain aspects that define daily habits, participation in community rituals, and even financial obligations. Let’s take a look at what the everyday life of a typical Scientologist is like and the rules that govern their life.

1. 01. The Role of the Church in a Scientologist’s Life
   The Church of Scientology is an integral part of the lives of its followers. For most Scientologists, attending church is not a formality—it is a daily practice that helps maintain spiritual purity and move toward complete freedom. Scientologists regularly visit church to participate in various activities, such as:

• Auditing
  This is an important spiritual practice carried out in the church with the use of the E-meter. It allows individuals to understand their own experiences more deeply and free themselves from limitations.
• Education
  Scientologists take courses that help improve their personal lives, work, and relationships. These courses may be free or paid, but even free courses require participation in church events.
• Prayers and Rituals
  Although Scientology does not have traditional prayers, the church organizes special rituals to help followers cleanse themselves and guide them toward personal freedom. On average, Scientologists attend church several times a week, and depending on their level of spiritual development, sometimes daily. This is important for maintaining inner harmony and connection to the teachings.

1. 02. Financial Obligations: How Much Money to Give?
   One of the most controversial aspects of Scientology is the financial side. Scientologists believe that their path to spiritual freedom requires financial investments, which can be significant.

• Education and Courses
  One of the main sources of income for the church is courses and education. Every Scientologist must complete several courses, which require considerable financial investment. The cost of courses can range from hundreds to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the level of the course.
• Auditing
  The auditing process is also paid. Each session with an auditor costs a substantial amount of money, especially at higher levels. Furthermore, to progress to higher levels of spiritual cleansing, one must pay for a series of such sessions, which can cost thousands of dollars.
• Donations to the Church
  Scientologists also make regular donations to the church. These donations may be fixed or voluntary, but active financial support from members is often expected to ensure the church’s operations. Scientologists generally consider these expenses essential for their spiritual progress and do not see them as a burden. For many, this is a part of their spiritual life and path to complete freedom.

1. 03. A Day in the Life of a Scientologist: Routine and Obligations
   The day of a typical Scientologist generally begins with morning auditing or prayer. It is important to start the day with a focus on spiritual development. After that, they may go about their regular activities: working, spending time with family, or studying. However, each day must include practices that help maintain spiritual well-being. For younger members of the church, the routine may include additional obligations, such as working within church structures or assisting in organizing church events. In some cases, especially for those actively involved in the church’s activities, their work schedule can be quite demanding.
2. 04. The Role of Family and Society in a Scientologist’s Life
   Family plays a special role in Scientology, particularly when it comes to raising children. Scientologists try to raise their children in the spirit of the religion, introducing them to the teachings and practices from an early age. Children undergo their initial courses, and there is also a system of spiritual growth for them, which requires financial investment. Moreover, Scientologists actively support one another. There is a strong sense of community, and many relationships are built on the principles of ARO—mutual affinity, objectivity, and reality. This influences how they interact with family members, colleagues, and friends.

The life of an average Scientologist, despite the many practices and philosophical aspects, represents a dynamic, active, and regulated system. It combines both spiritual pursuits and financial obligations. It is important to note that for each follower, Scientology is not just a religion, but a way of life that requires constant self-work and significant effort to achieve inner freedom.

Scientology and the Stars: Why Hollywood is on Its Side

One of the most effective levers of influence for Scientology has been its ability to attract celebrities. This strategy is particularly prominent in the United States, where the church has created an entire infrastructure to work with famous individuals, such as the "Celebrity Centre". This is a special center where celebrities undergo exclusive programs designed to deepen their understanding of Scientology and help them integrate religious practices into their lives. They are offered unique courses and training focused on developing personal and professional skills.

Famous Scientologists

• Tom Cruise
  Arguably the movement's most prominent ambassador. His commitment to Scientology is well known worldwide, and he actively defends the church, publicly stating that it has played a crucial role in his personal life and career. Tom Cruise has also become an important figure in involving other celebrities in the movement, using his status and influence.
• John Travolta
  Another iconic figure from Hollywood who supports Scientology. His long-term membership in the church and active role in promoting it strengthens Scientology’s image as a religion that attracts the elite.
• Kirstie Alley
  The actress, whose involvement in Scientology is also notable. She is not only a church member but also actively promotes its ideas by speaking at various events.
• Elvis Presley
  While it is unclear whether he officially became a member, he showed interest in Scientology, making his figure significant in the historical context of the religion's spread in the entertainment world.

The PR strategy through celebrities has been extremely successful: Scientology has gained an aura of elitism and spiritual exclusivity. Inspired by the successes of their idols, people began flocking to the centers, hoping to "discover what is hidden from others." This idea of exclusivity created an attractive image, making followers believe that Scientology could offer them something more, something secret from the rest. In this way, the church used the status of its famous adherents as a form of social proof, supporting its status.

Why do people join Scientology?

Despite the criticism, thousands of people continue to join the ranks of Scientologists. The reasons are often simple:

1. 01. Searching for meaning and order in life
   Many individuals, facing life's difficulties or feeling emptiness, seek a spiritual path that promises a clear structure, an explanation of the meaning of life, and answers to questions about what happiness is and how to achieve it.
2. 02. The desire to belong to a community
   Belonging to a group, especially an exclusive one that stands out from the rest, is an important part of human nature. Scientology creates a sense of unity and cohesion, which is attractive to those looking for recognition and understanding among like-minded people.
3. 03. The promise of spiritual power and freedom
   One of the main ideas promoted by Scientology is achieving personal freedom and power through progress on the spiritual path. This concept appeals to those who want to change their lives, overcome internal blocks, and achieve more than what ordinary society offers.
4. 04. Personal recommendation from a friend, colleague, or idol
   Especially effective can be the "word-of-mouth" factor, where a person joins the organization under the influence of an authoritative figure. These could be friends, colleagues, or even celebrities whose successes and achievements become a kind of "endorsement" for newcomers.

The church creates the illusion of an elite club, where each person is revealed "the truth" that is closed off to most. This works on the minds, especially in an era of crises in meaning.

Criticism, Scandals, and Lawsuits

Scientology has indeed attracted attention not only because of its philosophy but also due to numerous scandals. From accusations of manipulation to serious legal issues, these matters have drawn significant media and public attention.

• Intimidation of critics
  One of the most common accusations against the Church of Scientology is the persecution of those who speak out against it. Former members of the church have described surveillance, threats, and pressure to silence their voices. In some cases, individuals who left the church claimed to be subjected to media attacks or even private investigations in an effort to intimidate them.
• Financial schemes
  Another aspect that has garnered criticism relates to the financial practices of the church. Scientology has been accused of demanding large sums of money from its followers in exchange for "spiritual practices" or access to more advanced levels of teachings. There are allegations that the organization uses manipulation to extract money from each follower, creating a donation system that can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
• Persecution of former members
  Those who leave Scientology often face serious consequences. They may be subject to public condemnation, personal threats, and even legal persecution. This is often because the church views "apostates" as enemies and conducts interrogations or campaigns against them.

Official Status

In 1993, the United States officially recognized Scientology as a religion, leading to its exemption from taxes. This recognition sparked a number of controversies, as many critics consider Scientology to be more of a cult than a legitimate religious organization.

However, in other countries such as Germany, France, and Russia, Scientology faces much stricter control and even bans. These countries fear its destructive influence on society and often take measures to restrict its activities.

In addition to the discussed aspects, Scientology is also embroiled in serious accusations related to deaths, personality manipulation, broken relationships, missing persons, and even human trafficking. All these issues create a cloud of concern and scandal around the church, as evidenced by several high-profile court cases and public debates.

Deaths Related to Scientology

There have been several well-known cases where a person's death has been linked to their affiliation with Scientology or its practices:

• Death of Lisa McPherson
  One of the most high-profile cases is the death of Lisa McPherson, a young woman who became a Scientologist in the 1970s. In 1995, after an extended period within the church, she ended up in a Scientology clinic in Florida, where her condition deteriorated rapidly. McPherson was hospitalized with serious mental and physical problems and soon died. Investigations suggested that her death could have been linked to harsh treatment and the lack of medical assistance. In response, Scientology claimed she died due to "serious personal problems." This case became one of the most widely discussed in the media and led to legal proceedings.
• Death of children in Scientology's Sea Org
  Internal structures such as Sea Org have faced accusations of mistreatment and low living standards. There have been cases where children in these organizations died from diseases after being denied medical care, with the explanation that their problems were a result of "insufficient spiritual purification". Several such tragedies were publicly discussed.
• "Break of relationships" and manipulation
  The Church of Scientology is widely known for its tactics of controlling and manipulating the personalities of its members, including through the creation of stressful situations that could lead to psychological trauma. Ostracism — the church actively uses a strategy of "breaking relationships" with those who choose to leave or criticize it. This leads to what is called "disconnection" (or "ectomy"), where members who leave the organization find themselves "outside of society," deprived of contact with friends, relatives, and colleagues who remain in the church. This method of severing social ties is considered psychological abuse, as people lose their close relationships under pressure.
  Auditing, which involves sessions with auditors using a device called the E-meter, was often used to strengthen control over the personality. During auditing sessions, church members could undergo intense psychological pressure, aimed at uncovering sensitive aspects of their personal lives, creating a sense that they must fully trust the church in order to heal.

Public Scandals of the Organization

In 2010, the British television company BBC released a documentary investigating the activities of the Church of Scientology. The film presented interviews with former members of the church, who revealed the mechanisms of manipulation, repression, and financial schemes employed by the church. The documentary also discussed allegations of how Scientology suppresses its reputation through threats and attacks on critics.

After the release of this material, the BBC and its journalists faced accusations and threats from the church. This heightened public attention to the question of whether Scientology is truly a religion or if its practices resemble a cult that uses various manipulations to control people.

The Church of Scientology, like many other organizations, has faced accusations of imposing harsh or absurd methods on its members' personal decisions, including issues related to women's reproductive rights. One of the most discussed cases is related to abortions.

Previously, the church claimed that it prohibited abortions for its members, considering them spiritually harmful. However, in one investigation, former members of the church revealed that women in Scientology who could not have children for personal or health reasons were pressured into making decisions about abortion. This also sparked criticism from human rights advocates, who stated that Scientology uses such moments to control its followers' personal choices.

Human Trafficking

One of the darkest aspects of Scientology's activities is the accusations of forced confinement of people within the organization and human trafficking, particularly within the Sea Org. Members of Sea Org sign a contract in which they promise to dedicate their lives to serving the church for a period of 1 to 5 billion years. As a result, people end up in isolated conditions, often with minimal rights and opportunities to leave.

• In some cases, church members have reported the "disappearance" of their loved ones, who, according to them, simply vanished without a trace after attempting to leave the organization. There are also a number of stories where people claimed that their spouses or relatives were captured and held against their will to prevent them from leaving the church.
• Several former members of the church claimed they were forced to work in slave-like conditions, often without pay. This occurred within various church programs, such as Sea Org or other structures, where people were recruited with promises of "spiritual compensation," but in reality, they lived in harsh conditions with strict control and low standards of living.

All these accusations and cases have led to even greater criticism from the media, human rights advocates, and former followers, and raise questions about the true nature of Scientology. The question of whether it is a legitimate religion or a cult remains open.

Scientology as a Mirror of Consumer Society

What is Scientology really? A religion of the new age? A marketing game? Psychotherapy with elements of show business? It’s all of these — at once.

It offers people what they so desperately seek:

• Control over one’s destiny
  In a world of uncertainty, where people search for control over their lives, Scientology offers methods that promise complete control over not just one’s internal state but also external events. In its view, personal freedom is not simply independence from circumstances, but the ability to change reality itself.
• Confidence in the future
  Scientology gives belief in the idea that anyone can become the best version of themselves, providing confidence in the future. This is a strong motivator for those who struggle to find stability or meaning in life. The structure and clarity of the system give a sense of security.
• A clear structure for personal growth
  In a world often dominated by chaos and uncertainty, Scientology offers a strictly organized process of development, with every step and stage inevitably leading to success. Training programs, courses, and spiritual levels help people feel they are on their way to something great.
• A sense of exclusivity
  Scientology creates the illusion of belonging to a special group of people who possess knowledge and abilities unavailable to the majority. This feeling of elitism is especially appealing to those who are looking for confirmation of their uniqueness and importance in the world.

However, all of this becomes available only for money. Moreover, the higher one climbs on the spiritual ladder, the more financial investment is required. Thus, Scientology is not just a religion but also a business venture built on systematically extracting financial resources from its followers.

Behind the beautiful slogans and promises lies a rigid commercial structure, where every new level requires financial investment. This allows the movement to be profitable, maintaining both financial and organizational stability for decades.

Interesting Facts About Scientology: Lesser-Known Details

• Hubbard's Cosmic Saga
  Scientology includes elements of science fiction. For example, the doctrine of the "Galactic Conglomerate" states that 75 million years ago, the ruler of the Universe, Xenu, dropped billions of spirits (thetans) onto Earth in volcanoes, after which they became part of humans. These stories are revealed only at higher levels of initiation.
• Secret Writings
  Many of Hubbard’s texts (such as "OT III") are classified and available only after passing previous levels. Leaks of these materials on the internet have caused scandals — for example, the story of the "cosmic holocaust" under Xenu’s control.
• Scientology and the Internet
  The Church strictly controls its reputation online. It has sued critics and its websites block negative comments. In 2008, an internal video leak revealed Tom Cruise speaking about the "mission" of Scientologists.
• "Detoxing" from Toxins
  Hubbard believed that radiation and drugs leave "deposits" in the body. For purification, followers go through the "Purification Program": taking high doses of vitamins, running in saunas, and drinking oil — a method condemned by doctors.
• Scientology vs Wikipedia
  The Church of Scientology has repeatedly tried to edit articles about itself on Wikipedia, hiding critical information. As a result, Wikipedia blocked all IP addresses associated with Scientology organizations.
• Tom Cruise and "The Hole"
  It is said that Tom Cruise, one of Scientology’s most famous members, has immense influence within the organization. Rumors suggest he even visited "The Hole" — a secret location where misbehaving church members undergo psychological pressure.
• Scientology Children's Camp
  Former church members spoke about "The Ranch" — a labor camp in California where Scientologist children worked under the scorching sun, rarely saw their parents, and endured harsh punishments.
• Operation Snow White
  In the 1970s, Scientologists carried out a large-scale operation to infiltrate U.S. government institutions and destroy "harmful" documents. As a result, several high-ranking Scientologists were convicted.
• Scientology — the Richest "Religion"?
  According to some estimates, the assets of Scientology exceed 1.5 billion dollars. In Germany, Scientology is considered not a religion but an "economic enterprise."
• Scientologists Believe L. Ron Hubbard is Immortal
  Despite his death in 1986, some Scientologists believe that Hubbard "left his body voluntarily" to continue his research in another dimension. There are even rumors that he will return in a new body.
• "Disciplinary Measures": Isolation and Forced Labor
  Members of Sea Org (the elite group of Scientologists) who misbehave may be sent to the "RPF" (Rehabilitation Project Force) — a kind of labor camp where they work 16–20 hours a day in exchange for food and a bed.
• Scientology’s "Mental Hospital" for Unwanted Members
  Within the church, there is a "Special Unit" that handles "problematic" members. They may be isolated, deprived of sleep, and forced to write endless confessions — methods reminiscent of brainwashing.
• "Detox Program" for Addicts (Narconon)
  Scientologists run a network of rehabilitation centers called Narconon, where drug addiction is treated using Hubbard's methods (sauna, vitamins, "spiritual practices"). These centers have been closed in several countries due to fraud and fatal cases.
• Scientologists Buy Buildings but Don’t Use Them
  The Church buys entire blocks of buildings in cities, but many of these buildings remain empty. For example, in Los Angeles, they have an entire "Scientology village," where nearly no one lives.
• "Dead Souls" in the Database
  Scientologists even register the deceased — supposedly for their "future reincarnations." Their databases contain millions of "spiritual beings," including celebrities who were never Scientologists.

Discover America with American Butler

Scientology is a phenomenon that cannot be described in one way. For some, it’s a path to freedom. For others, it’s a refined trap. But one thing is clear: it reflects the pain and fear of modern humans, their desire to understand themselves and the world, and to find direction in chaos.

If you wish to explore the religious and philosophical map of America — do so consciously. And let those who know the road guide you.

American culture is layered and complex — and religions here reflect the full spectrum of these contradictions. Tours from American Butler are not just a walk through Los Angeles or New York, they are a deep dive into the social and spiritual landscape of the USA.

Book a private tour with a visit to iconic religious centers, including the Church of Scientology, and get the chance to look at the phenomenon from the inside.