Hi everyone
I've spent the last couple of days reading up on Scientology. There is a new book out by Lawrence Wright called "Going Clear," which I really want to buy and read.
Going Clear is based on Wright's article in the New Yorker where he explores Scientology through the experiences of Paul Haggis, a celebrated hollywood director who defected in 2009.
Here's a two-part news report on Haggis and Scientology, featuring Wright's opinions as an outsider investigating the organization...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meN7Nb--q7w
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vVNSc3ah7M
And here's the link to the New Yorker article for those who (like me) don't mind trawling through 26 pages if it's an engrossing read!
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2011/02/14/110214fa_fact_wright?currentPage=1
As you might expect, there are disturbing similarities to be found with the beliefs and practices that many of us grew up with. Overall, however, I believe Scientology is a much more "intense" and heavy-handed cult - with the leader David Miscavige even accused of physical violence against his subordinates, not to mention allegations of child labor.
Cedars