Introduction: Is the Church of Scientology a Cult?

Is the Church of Scientology a Cult?

Is the church of Scientology a cult? This question is a hotly debated topic in which many scholars and individuals have different opinions on. In this blog I will look into the church of Scientology, its actions and also if it is in fact a cult.

In this post I will look into what exactly is the church of Scientology and also the criteria for a cult itself. I will make comparisons and also highlight differences.

Firstly, I want to talk about Scientology itself. Developed by L. Ron Hubbard in 1952 the church of Scientology is an organization which follows the Scientology belief system. The word Scientology itself means the "study of knowledge or truth" and addresses the rehabilitation and salvation of the human spirit. scientologists believe that through a relationship between the universe and the human spirit they can learn the fundamental laws of life which when applied can help achieve happiness and success (Lewis, 2009).

Scientology is famously known for its membership of celebrities and also its secrecy. Celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Jason Lee and Nancy Cartwright are all well-known scientologists helping with both contributing to and advertising the church itself. Secrecy is plays a major role the Scientology. Transcripts of their teaching seminars are nearly impossible to find along with statistics of membership or revenue. Also, the works of their founder L. Ron Hubbard are kept secret.

Dictionary.com (n.d) defines a cult as “a particular system of religious worship, especially with reference to its rites and ceremonies”. However, cults are commonly perceived as being extreme groups following a strict belief system.

I found this particular comic by Dan Markowits (2012) depicting the meaning of cult quite well

Using this mold lets see if Scientology does fit being a cult.

1.  Did you join because you wanted to be a part of something bigger than yourself?

Check, members often join because they are lonely and are looking for direction.

2. Is there a very strict hierarchical chain of command?

Check, people who have been in the church longer enjoy greater benefits

3. Is alcohol part of the initiation ritual?

No, (well played Scientology)

4. Are chants or songs used to keep members submissive?

Yes, Scientologists believe that Hubbards teachings must be followed exactly and any alteration will weaken its effectiveness.

5. Are members expected to recruit new members?

Yes, Celebrities are often seen advertising and opening speaking about about Scientology in the media.

6. Is the group hostile to others invading their territory?

Yes, judging by there secrecy and their forcing Google to take down unfavorable information on the site. Its safe to say they are indeed hostile.

7. Is it difficult for members to leave after members for a long time?

Yes, leaving a Scientology is said to be very difficult. One lady was even kidnapped for leaving Scientology.

8. Do high ranking members wear strange clothing?

No, (thankfully).

9. Is the leader mysterious but charismatic enough to attract a large following?

Yes, L. Ron Hubbards teaching are what kept Scientology alive. Even after death his works are still followed closely and strictly by its members.

10. Can the police raid or topple or organization?

No, however recently Germany has launched a full investigation into Scientology believing it to a dangerous organization.

In my opinion i believe the church of Scientology is indeed a cult. One which the world has never seen. While being infamously known for its conspiracy's it continues to remain popular. I will further look deeper into Scientology to further answer the question of is Scientology a cult?.

Reference List

Cult. (n.d). Retrieved May 14, 2012 from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/cult?s=t

Kuchinsk, C. (2012). Tom Cruise Talks Katie and Scientology with 'Playboy'. Retrieved May 14, 2012, from http://celebs.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474981335953.

Lewis, J, R. (2009) Scientology. UK: Oxford University Press

Loney, M. (2002), Google pulls anti-Scientology links. Retrieved May 14, 2012, from http://news.cnet.com/2100-1023-865936.html

Markowits, D.  (2012). 10 Ways a Conga Line is Exactly Like a Cult. Retrieved May 14, 2012, from http://www.cracked.com/article_19830_10-ways-conga-line-exactly-like-cult.html

 Woman claims Scientologists kidnapped her. (2011). Retrieved May 14, 2012 from http://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2011/11/28/Woman-claims-Scientologists-kidnapped-her/UPI-89581322528985/