This week, it’s answers about loaded language in Scientology, how much should cult education be part of schooling, why is David Mayo a significant name in Scientology’s history and a lot more. Enjoy!
(1) When I was still relatively new to Scientology, I was put on the E-meter and asked many questions including “Are you reasonable?” and I answered “Of course, who wouldn’t be?” To my surprise, she got all weird as if I had murdered someone. She then showed me Hubbard’s definition of reasonable and as I recall it was absurd and completely contrary to what you might think. What is the Hubbard made up definition of “reasonable”? What purpose does it serve? And what procedure was done on me?
(2) In your opinion, how much should the average person know about cults? At what age would this knowledge be appropriate to introduce? In a perfect world, should there be introductory information about cults and cultic thinking in the social studies curriculum on a high school level? Or is it too complicated or too abstract for a young person without the experience of independent living?
(3) Could you please explain who David Mayo was and his place in Scientology’s history? For those interested in Scientology, he’s a name that comes up a bit. I have watched briefly a few of his lectures from years ago and he seemed intelligent and charismatic, a potential leader I’d say.
(4) How can we keep in communication with someone that has joined the Sea Org? Recently a friend of mine was recruited and moved from Europe to LA. I had no idea what the Sea Org was all about and how strict it could be until I lost my friend to it. In the meantime, he has deleted all his social media accounts, including WhatsApp and possibly his email address. There is no way I can reach out to him directly. I’m really sad that this is happening, mainly because I’m sure I haven’t said anything to be considered an SP, and I know he would never vanish like this in his sane mind.
The last time I heard from him he called me saying he was still in quarantine studying and his EPF was about to start. I understand they have no time to be on their cellphone but damn…vanishing like that?
I decided to write him a letter but I have no guarantees that they are going to deliver it to him. I kept it light but maybe my feelings for him showed up a little. I wrote on a postcard some positive news, that I missed his smile and that he would always be welcomed where I live. Do they also censor this type of communication?
(5) I was wondering if you could include some content that compares and contrasts the methods, emotional needs and overall experiences between “Oh No! Ross and Carrie” and their approach versus Midnight Mormons’ attempt at joining the Church of Scientology. They both had the same premise of walking in and giving it a try, but there were two totally different outcomes.
(6) Do you have an opinion about the “Self Realization Fellowship?”
(7) Chris, are you familiar with Christian Science? How is it similar or different than Scientology?
(8) Images of volcanoes are everywhere in Scientology, what are the pre-OT3 Scientologists told of there significance?