From the Scientology archives … Robert Vaughn Young

Posted: 31st May 2023 by Imhotep in Ex-Scientologists, From the Archives, Operation Snow White
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The headline for those who escape follows a similar theme …
“Former Scientology Member Shares Shocking Story.”

In the late 1980s Robert Vaughn Young “escaped” from Scientology with his then-wife Stacy Brooks. He was one of the highest-level executives to have ever defected from the church. Young made a major contribution to Hubbard’s Church, at least until he learned the truth about L. Ron Hubbard and his past. Robert revealed much of this truth after he escaped from the cult.

He was in Scientology for about 21 years. Until Jesse Prince, he was the highest-ranking Scientology executive to speak about the organization without its approval. He was involved in virtually every echelon of the organization, from the franchise where he started in 1969 to working directly with David Miscavige. About 18 of those years were spent in or senior to Dept. 20 (which was called the Office the Special Affairs or OSA), the section that dealt with the ”enemies” of the organization, meaning anyone who disagrees with or criticizes any aspect of Scientology, Hubbard, or ”management.”

Wikipedia: Robert Vaughn Young.

Robert Vaughn Young (April 23, 1938 – June 15, 2003) commonly known by his initials RVY, was an American whistleblower against the Church of Scientology after working high inside their organization for over twenty years.

Young had been a national spokesman for the Church of Scientology. Of his years with the organization, Young said:

I have held nearly every type of position at every echelon. I have worked at the local, the regional, the national and the international levels. I have been a Scientology representative and spokesman before governmental bodies, the media and the courts. I have trained others on how to handle the media and governmental agencies. I have been the most senior public relations executive for Scientology world wide. I worked for years at the echelon that handles critics, “enemies,” the media, judges, the courts and the government. I have been privy to documents and tactics of the most secret nature, including illegalities committed by Scientology executives and the means of cover-up.

Young edited L. Ron Hubbard’s ten-volume Mission Earth series. Young said that Hubbard had written the main text of the series, but that he had ghostwritten the introduction of each volume, as well as other writings in Hubbard’s name.

The Mind Benders Title: Hubbard’s “Mission Earth” – the rest of the story
Author: Robert Vaughn Young
Date: 23 Feb 2000 00:08:01 GMT

Saturday, February 19, 2000
L. RON HUBBARD’S MISSION EARTH: the rest of the story
by Robert Vaughn Young**

A representative of Scientology’s Dept. 20 has claimed on ARS that I had nothing to do with Hubbard’s last work, “Mission Earth.” I tend to ignore their blathering of these sock puppets but I really took personal umbrage at this one! I was Hubbard’s editor and sometimes-ghost writer and I earned THAT battle ribbon!

THE REST OF THE STORY IS HERE.

In 1989, Young was removed from his job as head of worldwide public relations for the Church of Scientology and sent to the RPF — Rehabilitation Project Force — Scientology’s manual labor re-education camp.

PHOTO: 1975: Vaughn was doing “Snow White” research on Interpol. He was at his desk on the seventh floor of the Manor, where the Guardian’s Office worked.

After leaving the Church of Scientology in 1989, Young became prominent as an expert in court cases regarding Scientology such as CSI v. Fishman and Geertz, BPI v. FACTNet, the Lisa McPherson civil trial, cited by the press, and as an Internet-based critic of the organization.

David Miscavige had sent Mike Rinder and Mike Sutter (link to video comment by Karen de la Carriere) to Seattle to try to silence Vaughn Young and his then-wife Stacey by “making peace” with them. They had almost clinched a deal when Miscavige ordered them to change the terms. That derailed the negotiations and the couple continued to be a thorn in Scientology’s side for many years. Other harassments by the Church came to the attention of Bob Minton, a wealthy financier who was interested in free speech on the internet. He took up the couple’s cause and paid to relocate them to a house outside of Seattle. Through his contact with the Youngs, Minton learned more about Scientology and eventually founded the Lisa McPherson Trust with Stacey Brooks.

Young was diagnosed with prostate cancer on November 23, 1999, and turned his energies to Phoenix5, a non-profit organization that runs a website on the disease. He died on June 15, 2003.

Scientology from the inside out.
Robert Vaughn Young

“This is one of the most important articles ever written on the subject of the cult. Nowhere else are these points explained.” – Jon Atack

Published in Quill, The Magazine of The Society for Professional Journalists; November-December 1993.

Scientology from inside out
A former insider reveals strategies for managing the news media

They say the first step in any recovery program is the admission, so here it is: I handled public relations (PR) and the media for L. Ron Hubbard and his Scientology empire for 20 years.

It is no accident that I avoid saying “Church of Scientology” — the trademarked corporate name. The Scientology world is much larger than merely the “Church” of Scientology. 

From 1969 to 1989, I worked at every echelon of the organization, from a small, new “mission” up to national and then international level, including handling media in other countries and working at Hubbard’s personal literary agency. During my tenure, I handled reporters from high school papers and from The New York Times. I have appeared as a Scientology spokesman on radio talk shows and national TV news, as well as in magazines, books, and even a documentary film. I was a member of the Guardian’s Office, the pseudo-naval Sea Organization, and the glitzy Author Services Inc., Hubbard’s literary agency in downtown Hollywood.

When the FBI raided Church of Scientology Guardian offices in Los Angeles and D.C. in 1977, I was the national spokesman, fielding questions on that day and in the months to come.

When Hubbard’s secret international headquarters at Gilman Hot Springs near Hemet, California, was exposed in 1980, I went in to convert the image of the facility overnight. I gave the Los Angeles ABC-TV affiliate a tour of “Golden Era Productions,” the image it still has to this day.

Whispering Winds ranch near Creston, California, where Hubbard spent his final few years in total seclusion before he departed this planet at 8 pm on January 24, 1986.

When Hubbard died in 1986, I was called to his secret California ranch, arriving well before the authorities were called, to help design and implement the strategy to control the media, as well as to calm his followers.

For my training, I studied and had secret directives from Hubbard and others on how to handle reporters, how to deal with police and government agencies, how to create front groups, and how to discredit or destroy a person or a group with Hubbard’s “fair game” doctrine.

I also trained other Scientology PRs on how to handle the media, using material from Hubbard. This included how to respond to a question without answering, how to divert the issue, how to tell “an acceptable truth,” how to stall for time, how to assume various emotional states to control another, how to “attack the attacker,” how to take control of a conversation, how to introvert a person and how to “get the message across” (especially in an age of sound bites), how to help Scientology attorneys write inflammatory legal papers so the PR could then safely use the abusive phrases, and how to appear to be a religion.

This, in brief, is what a journalist faces when encountering a trained and dedicated Scientology PR. The journalist wants a story. The PR wants to kill the story, or at least control it. While this is not particularly unusual, Scientology goes further than most. Scientology stands ready and able to unleash an assault on the journalist that can include private detectives and lawsuits, making it little wonder that publications have grown reluctant to write about the Hubbard empire. (See “Shudder into silence,” Quill, Nov./Dec., 1991.)

Since Scientologists know how the Fourth Estate operates, it’s time the journalist had a chance to learn some of the attitudes, rules, tactics, and tricks known only to Scientology.

Former church spokesperson, Tommy Davis was interviewed by journalist Martin Bashir for the ABC News program Nightline, in a piece called “Inside Scientology”, which aired in October 2009.[24] Davis ripped off his microphone and stormed off the set of the interview after he was questioned about whether he believed that 75 million years ago a galactic ruler called Xenu brought individuals to Earth and killed them in volcanoes.

1. Your local fanatic.Before talking with any Scientology PR or executive, a journalist must know that he or she will be talking to a fanatic — a person seeking to save the world. This is exactly what Scientologists believe they are doing.Moreover, unless you stand ready to print a Scientology story exactly as presented, you will be viewed as an enemy, an agent of the American Medical Association (AMA), a mouthpiece of psychiatry, or someone ready “to sell out the human race if his editor told him to” — in the words of a Hubbard policy letter of August 14, 1963. (This is a key Scientology document. Ask a PR to give you a copy. If he declines, it can be found in the green policy volumes available in any Scientology bookstore.2. You keeping notes?
Know that after your meeting (and after each encounter, including phone calls) the PR will write a debrief. This report will usually be E-mailed to the PR’s superior and up the command channel — and probably also into an intelligence area for filing. Therefore, start your own notes of everything that transpires.3. Image is everything.
Realize that when you are dealing with a PR or official of the Church of Scientology, religious image is not only a vital PR defense (the ecclesiastical equivalent of wrapping oneself in the flag) but is also crucial for tax-exemption purposes and for court cases. Thus the PR must be sure to demonstrate that Scientology is “an applied religious philosophy.” The PR will have many documents to “prove the religious bona fides” of Scientology (but lack anything to the contrary — such as decisions or rulings — of which he may honestly not know).

4. The shell game.
When proving the bona fides, PRs make no distinction among the many Scientology corporations. A Los Angeles organization will parade the acceptance of Scientology in London or St. Louis. But when needed, a complex labyrinth of corporations — a veritable hall of mirrors — comes into play. Suddenly no two Scientology organizations touch. Officials of one will act as if they barely know the officials in another. The reason is, of course, the IRS and the courts.

So try to find out which corporation you’re talking to and how it relates to the material you are being given. See if the PR or official is willing to go on-record permeating the corporate shells.

Trying to sort out the relations between the Church of Spiritual Technology, World Institute of Scientology Enterprises, and the Religious Technology Center is like trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube. Simply take the shortcut: find the unincorporated Sea Organization (SO). Touted as a “fraternal” organization, the SO is the highest inner circle of Scientology; it was the actual alter ego of Hubbard, the hidden nexus that permeates all corporations. Surprisingly, it has escaped scrutiny.

But asking the SO about the SO is like asking the CIA about the CIA. The difference is the CIA must respond to Freedom of Information Act requests.

5. Say what?
Politicians are notorious for responding to a question without answering it; Scientology PRs practice the skill for hours on end. The PR will drill how to answer simple questions about Scientology, how to “no-answer” a question, how to stall for time, and how to attack. (According to the original material, this included shouting, banging the desk, pointing at the reporter, and swearing.)

Thus a seemingly innocuous question such as “What is Scientology?” has already been practiced extensively, and there is a ready answer. More probing questions will produce “no answer.” Therefore a reporter can measure sensitivity by avoidance, and you will find that once you understand this, it is quite easy to spot.

To deal with this, first realize that it is part of the PR’s training. Listen carefully to his or her answers. (Better yet, tape the interview.) When the PR tries to avoid the question with a non sequitur, repeat your question. Continue to repeat your question until you actually get an answer. Ask the PR what drills he or she did before your interview, and ask to see current organization policies on handling the media. (Many are publicly available in Scientology bookstores.)

6. A dead what?
Depending on your story angle, you can easily find yourself buried by packs of documentation. Some are called “DA [dead agent] packs.” Hubbard took the phrase from Sun-tzu’s “The Art of War,” in which different types of agents are described. The “dead agent” is the one who is caught in a lie. The “DA pack” is supposed to counter a lie (thereby rendering the liar “dead” as a credible source) and usually addresses a particular document, from a newspaper article to a book. It is also used to discredit a person or a group that may be a source of criticism of Scientology.

A DA pack can include anything from Hubbard’s writings to a piece of press to an affidavit obtained by a private investigator. The purpose is to refute the targeted piece, person or group at virtually any cost. If the article presents no clear-cut falsehoods or errors but paints Scientology in an unfavorable light, the DA becomes a general reply (usually an attack on the source) that may be issued as a pamphlet, an ad, or an article.

Where possible, verify the claims or documentation. Contact the targeted person, group, or author of the article. Also take note of what is not refuted or challenged. In Scientology, omission can be as good as admission.
You can ask to talk to the people who produced the DA pack, but chances are you will not be allowed to, because they are not trained to deal with the media. In Scientology, only trained PRs are supposed to talk to the press. If an exception is made, it will be only those that are proofed up or drilled or have a proven track record of talking to the media about Scientology, and then it is often with a PR present. (A recent example will be found in the September issue of Premiere. The reporter was denied access to Hollywood celebrities in Scientology.) If you can do it, find some staff members who will talk to you. Find some field Scientologists to interview. You’ll learn more from them.

7. Go for the gold.
In Scientology, there is an exact chain of command. Each organization has one. The public version is supposed to be posted on a large wall of the organization. It should show the local position of your PR What will not be shown is his or her chain of command.

The media are handled by the Office of Special Affairs, or OSA, in the Church of Scientology. The OSA PR will have a senior on the PR chain of command. If the PR is a local OSA staff member (meaning the PR for a city or area), his or her senior will be at the continental level (such as OSA United States, located in Los Angeles) and then at the “int” or international level (OSA Int is also in L.A.). After that, the chain of command jumps to the Religious Technology Center (RTC). In highly unusual circumstances, an RTC official will intervene to handle a journalist, particularly if it is a crucial story for one reason or another, because RTC monitors all OSA activity and is ultimately responsible for any media on Scientology, whether good or bad.

David Miscavige has been the leader of Scientology since 1986 and in the 36 years since he took over from L. Ron Hubbard he has only sat down for one on-camera interview. The interview took place in 1992 with Nightline’s Ted Koppel. There is ZERO chance he will ever be interviewed again.

RTC’s chairman of the board is David Miscavige, who is now the admitted head of the Church of Scientology. His latest intervention will be found in the October issue of Premiere magazine. For any story on Scientology, Miscavige is the one to be interviewed. He lives on the Golden Era Productions property at Gilman Hot Springs. The PR assigned to you will know how to get a message to him. If all else fails, call Golden Era Productions. The personnel there know how to reach him.

Conclusion.
Scientology is in a state of siege with psychiatry, the media, and anything else perceived as attacking Hubbard or the organization. It has been that way since Hubbard named them as enemies decades ago. Talk to a Scientology PR long enough, and you may begin to sense something vaguely familiar about the attitude. walk through a Scientology office, and the proliferation of photographs and busts of Hubbard may strike a familiar chord.

Just substitute “Sea Organization” for “Party” in the following passage, and the chilling parallel may be evident:

“Even the humblest Party member is expected to be competent, industrious, and even intelligent within narrow limits, but it is also necessary that he should be a credulous and ignorant fanatic whose prevailing moods are fear, hatred, adulation, and orgiastic triumph. In other words it is necessary that he should have the mentality appropriate to a state of war. It does not matter whether the war is actually happening, and, since no decisive victory is possible, it does not matter whether the war is going well or badly. All that is needed is that a state of war should exist. The splitting of the intelligence which the Party requires of its members, and which is more easily achieved in an atmosphere of war, is now almost universal, but the higher up the ranks one goes, the more marked it becomes. It is precisely in the Inner Party that war hysteria and hatred of the enemy are strongest. In his capacity as an administrator, it is often necessary for a member of the Inner Party to know that this or that item of war news is untruthful, and he may often be aware that the entire war is spurious and is either not happening or is being waged for purpose quite other than the declared ones; but such knowledge is easily neutralized by the technique of double-think meanwhile no Inner Party member wavers for an instant in his mystical belief that the war is real, and that it is bound to end victoriously, with Oceania the undisputed master of the entire world.” –George Orwell, “1984”

Additional insights on Young’s comparison to Orwell’s “1984.”

How To Fool The Press: A study in misinformation
by Robert Vaughn Young

In nearly 20 years of handling the media for Scientology and Hubbard, I dealt with a lot of journalists. One of the most challenging occurred in 1980, when the Riverside Press-Enterprise broke a story by Dick Lyneis that Hubbard was secretly ensconced at a nearby deserted resort called Gilman Hot Springs.

L. Ron Hubbard was named by federal prosecutors as an “unindicted co-conspirator” in Operation Snow White and went into hiding for the rest of his life.

Since the FBI raid on Scientology offices in 1977, Hubbard had been the target of an increasing number of process servers and government investigators. His location had become one of Scientology’s best-kept secrets. When necessary, Hubbard could move and he did.

But the headquarters of Scientology International in Gilman Hot Springs could not move so easily. Although Hubbard claimed not to be running the Church of Scientology, in fact he did. Here was the seat of the Hubbard Holy Empire, 90 minutes east of Los Angeles. Hubbard was not eager for attorneys, the media, or the Internal Revenue Service to know this.

I was sent in to handle the situation.

As in Clearwater, Florida, Scientology had covertly bought the Gilman Hot Springs property and secretly moved in. The phone book listed it as the “Scottish Highland Quietude Club.” Few driving by were interested in the few people who occasionally walked between the buildings.

By the time I arrived, Hubbard had disappeared. Most of the staff he had deserted were terrified because t he security he had demanded had been blown. They knew his temper and they feared his wrath.

I toured the property and found a small film-making area and an audio tape production unit, called Golden Era, which was supposed to supply materials to the Church of Scientology. Both had been shut down by Hubbard, but I saw my solution. It was, as he called it, “an acceptable truth.” I obtained L.A.’s approval for my plan.

Through that night and into the morning, the facility was converted. I had the paper covering all the windows taken off. Everything was cleaned. Equipment and desks were rearranged to hide certain tasks and to create others. Tapes, films, scripts, and costumes were dragged out and made obvious. Many international management staff were sent off the base to reduce the number of personnel.

The next day, the “Scottish Highland Quietude Club” had become Golden Era Studios. A media tour went without a hitch. The tape-production area wasn’t cranking yet, but I did get people busy making costumes and booklets or doing artwork. We found a makeshift studio that “just happened” to be working when the tour came through. Asked about “international management,” I said yes, they did manage distribution of films and tapes, which did go to churches worldwide. No one noticed I had avoided the question and diverted attention to the film and tape production.

The news that night was perfect. The Riverside Press-Enterprise store had been countered. Gilman was no longer considered the headquarters of Scientology. It was just a bustling film and tape facility that supplied the Church of Scientology.

When the flap died down, international management quietly moved back in. Since then Golden ERA Productions has expanded considerably. There are even guided public tours and PR glitz, including an occasional VIP or Scientology celebrity tour of the tape and film facilities. No one asks about the other function we were able to quietly reinstall after the flap was handled., or the other management organizations that were quietly added.

But they’re there, just up the hill from the sound stage, not too far from the spa where the hot springs no longer flow.

Toward A New Model Of “Cult Control”
By Robert Vaughn Young

After I left Scientology in 1989 with 21 years in the cult, the hardest question people posed to me was why I stayed in it so long if I knew it was such an abusive system. I didn’t have an answer that satisfied me, let alone anyone else. I think I’ve come up with a reply and a model. It at least satisfies me today.

My own background and basic interests also demanded an answer to that question. I had a pursued and obtained a BA in philosophy (from what was then known as San Francisco State College) because of a strong interest in what we called philosophy of behavior/mind/psychology.

The first time I saw the parallel between my own experiences in the cult of Scientology and battered women was when I was reading “Captive Hearts, Captive Minds,” which is an excellent book. It was in the Intro or maybe the first chapter that they cited and quoted the singer Tina Turner who had been in an abusive relationship for something like 10 or 15 years. She remarked how being with Ike Turner was like being in a small cult. The remark jumped off the page at me. Given the success of Tina Turner as an entertainer, one is not prone to say she is a stupid woman but there she was in a marriage where she was beaten constantly and yet she stayed. When she finally escaped, as she tells her story, it was after a beating that left her head so swollen that she couldn’t put on a wig. She wrapped her head in a scarf and fled, taking no money or anything and finally got away from Ike Turner.

…

Why doesn’t she just leave? It’s the question many people ask when they learn that a woman is suffering battery and abuse. But if you are in an abusive relationship, you know that it’s not that simple. Ending a significant relationship is never easy. It’s even harder when you’ve been isolated from your family and friends, psychologically beaten down, financially controlled, and physically threatened.

No abusive relationship starts that way. In fact, the chances are that if the guy had slapped her on the first date, there wouldn’t be a second one. No, the abusive relationship starts with sweetness. When I was reading about abusive relationships, that came up constantly, how the guy was so nice and sweet. No, the abuse is gradual. It starts with some criticism and when the woman accepts it, then there is a little bit more. When she accepts that, the man does more as he introduces CONTROL. If she protests, he backs off until he can reestablish the control. It is called a GRADIENT. (Ironically, Scientologists will be familiar with that word.) The woman comes to accept more and more and becomes convinced that it is something SHE is doing wrong. As it is increased, the sweetness tapers off until it is finally dangled in front of her like a carrot. Somewhere along the line, the physical abuse starts. If she breaks too hard, he is sweet and comforting and maybe even apologetic, bringing her back under control. That is the key. CONTROL. (Another word Scientologists know well. Hubbard even had his own definition for it and processing addressing control.) Then one day the beatings are regular and she loses her self-respect and dignity.

…

Thanks to video cameras, we can watch shows like “Cops” where the police are called out to a real life “domestic disturbance.” If you have watched that show enough, you finally saw the all-to-familiar scene of the woman with a bloody nose who has clearly been beaten (the cops were called by neighbors hearing the fight) and is standing there explaining it all away, insisting that the police take no action. No, she’s fine, she says. No, it’s nothing. To the questions from the police about the bloody nose or the swelling around the eyes, she’ll say anything but the facts, that he was beating her. Do we need more evidence? There are the very people – the police – who can take him off to jail and end the abuse if she will simply speak up and she refuses while wiping the blood from her nose or pulling the torn clothing up around her shoulder and telling them that everything is okay. Of course, the police cannot legally intervene unless she complains and she will not.

Now let me make a harrowing admission. If the police had shown up that day when I was at the motel trying to escape, when the security guards were parked outside to make sure I didn’t disappear on them, and if the police had asked me if everything was okay or if I needed any help, do you know what I would have said and done? The same thing as that woman. No, it’s fine, I would have said. I’ll handle it. It stuns me to think it, let alone say it right now, but that is the truth. That is exactly what I would have done. And do you know why? Because I didn’t want to be in trouble with the cult. If you can figure that one out, give it to the experts.

There are only two answers for the handling of people from 2.0 down on the Tone Scale, neither one of which has anything to do with reasoning with them or listening to their justification of their acts. The first is to raise them on the Tone Scale by un-enturbulating some of their theta by any one of the three valid processes. The other is to dispose of them quietly and without sorrow.
— L. Ron Hubbard

The purpose of [a lawsuit] is to harass and discourage rather than to win. The law can be used very easily to harass, and enough harassment on somebody who is simply on the thin edge anyway, well knowing that he is not authorized, will generally be sufficient to cause his professional decease. If possible, of course, ruin him utterly.
— L. Ron Hubbard

This [Scientology] is useful knowledge. With it the blind again see, the lame walk, the ill recover, the insane become sane and the sane become saner. By its use the thousand abilities Man has sought to recover become his once more.
— L. Ron Hubbard

People attack Scientology, I never forget it, always even the score. People attack auditors, or staff, or organisations, or me. I never forget until the slate is clear.
— L. Ron Hubbard

I asked ChatGPT if Scientology could be considered a Rube Goldberg religion.

Posted: 27th May 2023 by admin in L. Ron Hubbard, Magick, Rube Goldberg Machine
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Rube Goldberg is an American cartoonist well known for his illustrations depicting overly elaborate devices designed to accomplish relatively simple functions. These types of devices became widely known as Rube Goldberg machines.

His creations were ludicrous, committed to paper but often expressed as unachievable in any real way, not to mention that these machines took a long, drawn-out approach to something that can be achieved by simple human motor skills.

L. Ron Hubbard’s Dianetics and the Religious Philosophy of Scientology is reminiscent of the construction of Rube Goldberg’s comical circular machine: he spent his time tinkering with an unnecessarily complicated, impractical, and ingenious device in order to do things inherently are easy. But there’s a kind of joy in theology’s altruism, there’s joy in its comical machinations, and finally, when the balloon bursts, the hamster spins, the chain pulls, the bucket empties, the pulley floats, and (voila!) the resulting theological goal is allegedly achieved.

L. Ron Hubbard … religion’s Rube Goldberg.

We checked in with ChatGPT, the artificial intelligence chatbot developed by OpenAI, and asked for some input based on the suggestion that Scientology could be considered a religious equivalent of a Rube Goldberg machine. Enjoy the conversation…

ChatGPT
L. Ron Hubbard’s Scientology can be likened to a religious Rube Goldberg invention, a complex and intricate system designed to address a seemingly simple issue—understanding human beings and achieving spiritual freedom. In this analogy, the fundamental premise of Scientology is that human behavior, which has been observed and studied for countless generations, can be comprehended through an elaborate contraption of teachings, practices, and rituals.

Ancient Egyptians had a very complex religion. Their religion was Polytheistic and featured hundreds of gods and goddesses.

Complexity of Steps: Similar to a Rube Goldberg machine, Scientology presents a complex system of steps, teachings, and practices that individuals must follow to progress on their spiritual journey. These steps involve auditing sessions, courses, extensive study materials, and financial commitments. The intricate nature of this process can create a sense of confusion and overwhelm, detracting from the perceived simplicity of achieving mental or spiritual growth.

Just as a Rube Goldberg machine consists of a series of convoluted steps to accomplish a straightforward task, Scientology employs a multifaceted framework to explore the nature of human existence. At its core, the belief system postulates that each individual is essentially a spiritual being, referred to as a “thetan,” which transcends physicality and possesses immense potential.

To initiate the process of understanding and attaining spiritual freedom, Scientology employs a series of intricate mechanisms. One of the key components is “auditing,” which is comparable to a cog in the Rube Goldberg machine. Auditing involves a form of spiritual counseling wherein an individual, guided by a trained auditor, reflects upon their experiences and memories while connected to an electronic device known as an “e-meter.” This device is believed to measure changes in the individual’s mental and spiritual state.

Elaborate Rituals and Terminology: Scientology incorporates a unique set of rituals, ceremonies, and specialized terminology, which can further contribute to the perception of unnecessary complexity. The religion employs its own vocabulary, complex hierarchies, and intricate symbolism, which may seem excessive or unnecessary for achieving the desired mental accomplishments.

The auditing process is intended to help individuals identify and overcome past traumas, negative emotions, and limiting beliefs, akin to the machine’s gears and levers maneuvering towards a specific outcome. Through repeated auditing sessions, the complex apparatus of Scientology aims to unlock layers of the human mind, gradually revealing a clearer understanding of oneself and the universe.

Relative Impact of Accomplishments: From an outside perspective, the perceived disproportion between the complexity of Scientology’s religious steps and the relatively minor mental accomplishments they claim to provide can be seen as incongruous. Critics argue that the level of commitment, time, and financial investment required by adherents may not align with the perceived benefits or outcomes of Scientology’s practices.

Purporting to be a new set of analytic tools to diagnose and overcome psychological hangups, but becoming a secretive multi-level religion/celebrity cult, Scientology has long been invested in explanatory charts, diagrams, and schema. Probably the most recognizable of these is the “Classification Gradation and Awareness Chart of Levels and Certificates,” debuted by founder L. Ron Hubbard in the late 1960s in training sessions, and containing an ever-expanding hierarchy of Classes and Grades including the ultimate state for Scientology adherents, being “clear.”

In addition to auditing, the Rube Goldberg-esque nature of Scientology incorporates an extensive body of teachings and writings, authored by L. Ron Hubbard. These writings serve as intricate parts of the religious contraption, elucidating various concepts, theories, and guidelines. They form the basis of courses and training programs offered by the Church of Scientology, designed to guide adherents through a labyrinthine maze of knowledge and self-discovery.

Much like the final step of a Rube Goldberg machine, Scientology proposes an ultimate objective: achieving a state of spiritual freedom known as “Operating Thetan” (OT). This represents the culmination of the intricate mechanism, where individuals are believed to have attained complete self-realization, heightened abilities, and a profound understanding of their spiritual essence.

While the Rube Goldberg analogy emphasizes the complexity of Scientology’s approach, it is essential to note that adherents often find value in its intricate design. Just as observers may appreciate the ingenuity and entertainment value of a Rube Goldberg machine, Scientologists often claim that the convoluted nature of their religious system provides a sense of structure, purpose, and fulfillment in their spiritual journey.

Lack of Empirical Evidence: The perceived disparity between the complexity of Scientology’s system and the results it claims to offer is exacerbated by the limited empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of its practices. While anecdotal accounts exist, the scientific community generally considers the claims of Scientology to be lacking in empirical support, which further fuels skepticism regarding the actual impact of the religious steps and practices.

However, it is worth acknowledging that this analogy also invites critical examination. Just as a Rube Goldberg machine can be criticized for its overcomplicated nature, detractors of Scientology argue that the complexity of its teachings and practices may obfuscate the simplicity of understanding human beings and finding spiritual meaning, which they argue can be achieved through more straightforward means.

In summary, L. Ron Hubbard’s Scientology can be seen as a religious Rube Goldberg invention—a system that uses intricate mechanisms, teachings, and practices to address the simple issue of understanding human beings and achieving spiritual freedom. Whether one admires the complexity or questions its necessity, Scientology’s intricate nature continues to captivate both followers and skeptics alike.

Question: Describe the complexities of following the Scientology religion to its ultimate end of reaching Operating Thetan Level VIII.

ChatGPT
Following the path of Scientology to reach Operating Thetan Level VIII (OT VIII), which is considered the ultimate level of spiritual attainment within the religion, involves a series of intricate and demanding steps. The complexities lie in the rigorous commitment, financial investment, time dedication, and the exclusive nature of the teachings and materials involved.

In this piece, Bell describes taking various Scientology courses, including the “advanced spiritual technology” Operating Thetan levels. Based on this 2003 price list, the estimated cost of all her “services” is in excesss of $400,000. The article also indicates she has donated half a million dollars towards the new Super Power building in Clearwater, Florida, still unfinished after ten years.

Progression through the Lower Levels: Before even embarking on the journey towards OT VIII, Scientologists must progress through a sequence of lower levels, known as the “Bridge to Total Freedom.” These levels require undergoing various auditing sessions, studying extensive materials, and participating in specific courses. Each level builds upon the previous one, gradually advancing the individual’s spiritual awareness.Completion of Advanced Courses: As one progresses through the levels, the complexity of the teachings and materials increases. Scientologists are expected to complete advanced courses, such as the “Advanced Courses for OTs,” which delve into profound subjects and demand a deep commitment of time, energy, and financial resources. These courses often involve intensive study and practical exercises aimed at enhancing spiritual abilities and awareness.

Financial Investment: Achieving OT VIII requires significant financial investment. Scientology operates on a fee-based system, where individuals pay for auditing sessions, courses, materials, and memberships. The cost of progressing through the levels can accumulate into a substantial financial commitment, which may pose a challenge for some individuals.

Eligibility and Selection: Reaching OT VIII is not simply a matter of completing the previous levels and courses. Scientologists must be selected and invited to participate in OT VIII, which adds another layer of complexity. The Church of Scientology maintains a strict control over the release of OT VIII materials and carefully chooses individuals who have demonstrated dedication, commitment, and trustworthiness.

Confidentiality and Secrecy: The teachings and materials associated with OT VIII are shrouded in secrecy within Scientology. Participants are required to sign confidentiality agreements, committing to keeping the content of the materials confidential. This exclusivity adds to the complexity, as access to the teachings is limited to a select group, and dissemination of the information is highly controlled.

Intensive Auditing and Solo Sessions: OT VIII involves extensive auditing and solo sessions, which can be mentally and emotionally demanding. Auditing at this level focuses on addressing deep-seated spiritual issues, past traumas, and negative emotions. These sessions may require individuals to confront challenging aspects of their past and work through complex psychological and spiritual issues.

Self-Exploration and Mastery: Achieving OT VIII entails a profound exploration of one’s spiritual nature, including the development and mastery of unique abilities and perceptions. Scientologists are encouraged to develop their spiritual potential and attain a heightened level of self-awareness, often described as a state of spiritual enlightenment and freedom.

The complexities of following the path to OT VIII in Scientology lie not only in the intricacies of the teachings and practices themselves but also in the personal dedication, financial investment, exclusivity, and demanding nature of the process. Reaching this ultimate level is seen as a significant accomplishment within the religion and represents the pinnacle of spiritual attainment according to Scientology’s beliefs.

Describe in detail what Scientologists hope to accomplish by clearing the planet.

ChatGPT
In Scientology, the concept of “clearing the planet” refers to the ultimate goal of achieving a world where all individuals have reached a state of spiritual enlightenment and freedom. Scientologists believe that by “clearing” people of their negative emotions, traumas, and limiting beliefs, they can bring about positive transformation on a global scale. The objectives and aspirations associated with clearing the planet can be understood through several key aspects:

Spiritual Freedom: At the core of clearing the planet is the desire to help individuals achieve spiritual freedom, known as “going Clear.” According to Scientology teachings, this state represents the release of past traumas, negative experiences, and influences that hinder personal growth and self-awareness. Scientologists believe that as more individuals attain this level of spiritual freedom, it creates a ripple effect, leading to a more enlightened and harmonious society.

Scientology cult founder L. Ron Hubbard postulated in 1968 that Scientology could “take the planet within a year.” It is now revealed that the cult failed to reach this goal. It should also be noted that this is 2023.

Enhanced Abilities: Clearing the planet is also associated with the belief that as individuals progress on the spiritual path, they can unlock their full potential and develop heightened abilities. These abilities are thought to include improved communication skills, increased intelligence, heightened creativity, and a deeper understanding of oneself and others. By clearing the planet, Scientologists aim to create a society where individuals are empowered and capable of making positive contributions to their communities.

Resolving Social Issues: Scientologists envision that clearing the planet will address various social issues and conflicts that plague humanity. They believe that many societal problems stem from unresolved traumas and negative experiences that impact individuals’ behavior and decision-making. By helping individuals overcome these issues through auditing and spiritual practices, Scientology aims to create a society where conflicts, crime, and social unrest are greatly reduced or eliminated.

Establishing a World of Understanding: Clearing the planet is also driven by the desire to foster understanding and tolerance among individuals. Scientologists envision a world where people comprehend and respect each other’s spiritual nature, resulting in improved relationships and cooperation. They believe that as more individuals achieve spiritual freedom and develop a greater understanding of themselves and others, it will lead to a more compassionate and harmonious global community.

Spreading Scientology’s Teachings: Another aspect of clearing the planet involves the dissemination of Scientology’s teachings and practices. Scientologists are encouraged to share their beliefs and introduce others to the religion, aiming to bring more individuals onto the path of spiritual freedom. The wider adoption of Scientology’s principles and practices is seen as an essential step towards achieving a cleared planet.

It is important to note that the concept of clearing the planet has faced criticism and skepticism outside of Scientology. Critics argue that the complexity and exclusivity of the religion’s teachings and practices make the idea of clearing the planet unrealistic or unattainable. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the potential negative consequences of Scientology’s practices and its impact on individuals’ mental health.

In summary, Scientologists hope to accomplish a world of spiritual freedom, enhanced abilities, and improved social conditions by clearing the planet. They aspire to assist individuals in overcoming past traumas, unlocking their full potential, and fostering understanding among people. Through their efforts, Scientologists aim to create a global community where personal growth, compassion, and harmony thrive.

Describe in detail what philosophies and other religious concepts L. Ron Hubbard likely used to invent the concepts found in the religion of Scientology.

ChatGPT

Scientology founder L. Ron Hubbard explicitly compared his teachings to the science-fiction subgenre space opera. The most controversial of these myths is the story of Xenu, to whom Hubbard attributed responsibility for many of the world’s problems.

L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, drew inspiration from various philosophies, religious concepts, and his own experiences to develop the teachings and concepts found within the religion. While Hubbard’s exact sources and influences have been a subject of debate, several key philosophies and religious ideas are often cited as potential inspirations for Scientology. It’s important to note that the following list is not exhaustive and represents some of the commonly discussed influences:

Dianetics: The foundation of Scientology is rooted in Dianetics, a system of self-help developed by Hubbard prior to the establishment of Scientology. Dianetics incorporated elements of psychology, particularly Sigmund Freud’s concept of the unconscious mind and the effects of trauma on individuals. Hubbard expanded on these ideas and developed auditing, the central practice of Scientology, which involves addressing past traumas to achieve spiritual liberation.

Eastern Religions: Hubbard’s exposure to Eastern religious traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism, likely influenced certain aspects of Scientology. Concepts such as reincarnation, karma, and spiritual enlightenment bear resemblances to these traditions. Hubbard may have incorporated his own interpretations and adaptations of these concepts into Scientology teachings.

Science Fiction: Hubbard was a science fiction writer and brought elements of his storytelling into Scientology. Science fiction themes of extraterrestrial life, intergalactic civilizations, and the concept of thetan (a spiritual being) may have influenced the imaginative and cosmological aspects of Scientology.

Western Esotericism: Hubbard showed an interest in Western esoteric traditions, including the occult, hermeticism, and Rosicrucianism. These traditions often explore spiritual enlightenment, self-transformation, and the nature of the divine. Elements of esoteric symbolism and practices might have influenced the rituals, terminology, and spiritual advancement found in Scientology.

The 50’s. It was during this decade that Norman Vincent Peale released his self-help blockbuster, The Power of Positive Thinking. The book provides strategies to overcome self-doubt, worry, stress and resentment. That combination hit a chord with the American middle class of the mid-century.

American Self-Help Movements: Hubbard lived during a time when self-help and personal development movements were popular in the United States. It is likely that he drew inspiration from these movements, which emphasized individual empowerment, personal growth, and the pursuit of happiness. The ideas of self-improvement and achieving one’s potential may have influenced Scientology’s emphasis on personal advancement and spiritual freedom.

Philosophy and Psychology: Hubbard had an interest in philosophy and psychology, and it is believed that he drew upon various philosophical and psychological ideas to shape Scientology. Influences from philosophers such as Immanuel Kant, Aristotle, and Voltaire have been suggested, as well as concepts from psychology, including the works of Carl Jung and William James.

Self-Reliance and Individualism: Hubbard promoted the idea of individualism and self-reliance, emphasizing personal responsibility and self-determinism. These principles align with the American ideals of individual freedom and self-empowerment.

It is important to note that while these influences can be identified, the exact sources and extent of their impact on Scientology’s development remain subjects of speculation and interpretation. L. Ron Hubbard synthesized and adapted various ideas into a unique system that formed the basis of Scientology, blending elements from diverse disciplines to create a distinct religious framework.

The Mind Benders, Scientology … the book they tried to ban.

Posted: 25th May 2023 by admin in Dianetics, E-Meter, Ex-Scientologists, From the Archives
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When the Ex-Scientology member movement began in earnest…

Cyril Ronald Vosper (1934-2004) was an anti-cult leader, former Scientologist and later a critic of Scientology, deprogrammer, and spokesperson on men’s health. He wrote The Mind Benders, which was the first book on Scientology to be written by an ex-member, and the first critical book on Scientology to be published.

The Mind Benders, Scientology
by Cyril Vosper
(from the 1971 Neville Spearman edition, SBN 85435 061 6)

The author’s experience of Scientology stretches over a period of 14 years from when it was a little known and interesting form of psychotherapy, to September 1968 when he was declared an S.P. (Suppressive Person). This meant that he was considered ‘Fair Game’. As Sir Elwyn Jones Q.C. said in the recent Scientology libel case, S.Ps. ‘could be deprived of property or injured by any means by any Scientologist. He could be tricked, sued or lied to, or destroyed.’ The direct cause of this action was the breakdown of the author’s marriage and separation of his children.

Mr. Vosper, who was a senior official at the Scientology H.Q. at Saint Hill, East Grinstead, Sussex, believes that it is time for a close and accurate inspection of Scientology so that people know the full facts before they consider joining it.

This is less a book than a stick of dynamite. Never before has there been an inside report on Scientology. The public have, so far, only vague newspaper reports and rumours to put against the sophisticated propaganda of the Scientologists.

In Scientology, sometimes conveniently referred to as the Church of Scientology, the former science-fiction writer, L. Ron Hubbard has constructed a world-wide network of organisations in such a manner as ‘… to pull the society under us’. Meaning that his long-term goal is for the entirety of the human race to be controlled, albeit benevolently, by him and his followers.

Unlike other fads and eccentricities of the past, Scientology is not a purely comic subject that appeals to those who need some sort of belief. It is far more comprehensive and frequently harmful.

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The lawsuit …Hubbard v Vosper, [1972]. Case documentation.

Wikipedia…

Hubbard v Vosper, [1972] 2 Q.B. 84, is a leading English copyright law case on the defence of fair dealing. The Church of Scientology sued a former member, Cyril Vosper, for copyright infringement due to the publication of a book, The Mind Benders, criticizing Scientology. The Church of Scientology alleged that the books contained material copied from books and documents written by L. Ron Hubbard, as well as containing confidential information pertaining to Scientology courses. Vosper successfully defended the claim under the fair dealing doctrine, with the Court of Appeal deciding unanimously in his favour.

Upon consideration of the evidence, Lord Denning found that the book was a fair dealing of the source material, rejecting the argument that Vosper was criticizing not the works per se, but was instead criticizing the underlying subject matter. He found that criticism of the book and criticism of the subject matter were indistinguishable, and that this would not in itself cause the fair dealing defence to fail.

Lord Megaw agreed, and added in his concurring judgment that it may be possible to invoke the fair dealing defence even if a substantial part or the entirety of the original work was reproduced, noting that the proportion of the work taken must be weighed against the nature and purpose of the reproduction.

Breach of confidence

The Court of Appeal rejected the argument that confidential information was unfairly used in Vosper’s book. Lord Denning noted that there was very little evidence pointing to the use of such confidential information, but that even if the information was used, there may be some circumstances such as these where the public interest may outweigh the confidentiality of the information.

A further attempt by the Church of Scientology to appeal the case to the House of Lords was dismissed on 9 February 1972.

Quote from XenuTV.com interview, November 19, 1997:

CYRIL VOSPER…
He told so many stories of his exploits, in South America, the West Indies and places, that he would have to have been at least 483 years old to have had enough time to have done all those things, but that doesn’t really matter. I mean, it was just very entertaining really, except that he turned it into a religion.

[Hubbard] probably always knew he was running a con. He must have known that much of the stuff he was talking about was a lot of rubbish. But I think that after a while, when he found there were thousands of people, with the adulation around the planet for this man, I think they started to take him over. I think he began to believe that he was, if not God, then very close to God.

Book Excerpts…

Chapter 1 — Why Scientology

Scientology evolved in 1952 from L. Ron Hubbard’s DIANETICS (DIÂ. Greek – through; NOUS. Greek – mind, intellect), which had been started two years earlier with the publication of Hubbard’s Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. This 400-page book outlined methods whereby the unqualified person could apply the techniques of Dianetics to resolve his problems, neuroses, psychosomatic ills, repressions, inhibitions and such. By comparison with the pessimism of mainstream psychology and psychotherapy, Hubbard described Dianetics as simple commonsense that invariably produced the desired results and by virtue of this optimism, Dianetics gained widespread, though short-lived, acceptance.

The newcomer to Scientology is attracted by the engineering-like practicality of the early stages of training and therapy. Good, solid stuff; applicable to everyday life; little hint of the wild non-proven and non-provable material to come.

On one hand Hubbard offers undoubted benefits in terms of increased awareness, mental calmness, a point to an otherwise often pointless existence. On the other, he demands strict adherence to an extraordinary set of beliefs, pseudo-science, opinions and folk-lore. He presents a comprehensible psycho-therapy that can certainly increase happiness and self-confidence. From this limited success, Hubbard predicts and promises the most astonishing further benefits. No superman in a pulp comic, no hero of space-opera, can equal the mental prowess of his Operating Thetan.

People who believe this sort of thing, and there are hundreds of thousands who do, will believe anything. Such a belief is not a rational thing. It is a need. L. Ron Hubbard has satisfied a need for a lot of people with his Dianetics and Scientology. They are grateful to be led. Grateful to be obedient. Their critical faculty is missing with regard to Hubbard.

Such people have always been at the core of the mass movements.

Chapter 2 — Assumptions

The major sources of basic assumptions in Dianetics and Scientology are the Axioms, Prelogics and Logics.

Hubbard has redefined in modern, scientific-sounding terms the ancient Hindu Vedanta concept of a soul or spirit that whilst appearing to inhabit the physical universe is of a distinctly separate order.

Scientology Axiom One is the assumption upon which the rest of the subject stands.

This static is called Theta (eighth letter of Greek alphabet – Ø). Individual units of Theta, such as people, are called Thetans. Theta could be regarded as God, Infinity, the Supreme Being.

The remaining forty-eight Scientology Axioms consist, in the main, of enlargements of the ways in which life handles itself in relation to the physical universe environment. It is apparent from all of the Axioms that Theta is at total cause over the universe. Only by a series of errors, probably deliberate at the outset but now accidental – since we have reduced our abilities to such a degree that “accidents” can occur – and over a vast span of time, have we been reduced to our present level of spiritual unawareness. From our original state of total awareness and power we must have postulated unknowingness for ourselves and have ever since been descending into greater unknowingness.

Scientology is not a science because its assumptions are stated as truth from the outset and no further inspection is permitted. It may be of worth but it is not a science.

Chapter 3 — The Thetan

The I, the Soul. the Élan Vital, the spirit, the motivation of life, life itself, this is the Thetan and the concept is not unique to Scientology. What is unique is the level of importance given to the Thetan. No Western religion or philosophy gives quite this degree of responsibility to the individual – the true, immortal, all-cause individual – that Scientology does.

There are powerful Thetans. Hubbard, obviously one, has described himself as a Meteor. My meetings with him bear this out an incredible dynamism, a disarming, magnetic and overwhelming personality.

There are also degraded Thetans.

These poor souls are probably well-intentioned and nice enough but they lack “Theta Energy” – whatever that might be – due to a mysterious and particularly revolting event on their Past Track, prior to this life, that makes them pretty useless until they have had a lot of high-level Scientology therapy. Hubbard probably invented degraded Thetans, or sometimes “Weak Thetans”, to explain failed cases who yet kept trying.

*Every religion, political ideology and dictator, no matter how degrading, has propounded a theory “for the good of Mankind”. All Scientologists believe and utter with the gleaming eyes of the proselytiser: “Scientology is the only thing that can save Mankind.”

Having seen, worked with and intimately known large numbers of Scientologists who have been cleared, the future proposed by Hubbard is at once ludicrous and terrifying. These people are no longer in control of their own minds. Their outlook and contact with reality is so limited as to be absurd. Yet they are convinced with a deep-down certainty that they are supermen. They are convinced as no other religious adherents can ever have been convinced of their infallibility.

They intend to “save the world from itself” whether the world wants to be saved or not.

The very thought of such a fate for the poor old world is horrifying.

Chapter 4 — The Mind

Plato introduced the idea of the mind as being completely separate from the physical body. Wundt, Freud and other psychologists continued this convenient concept. It has been the subject of massive tomes and has certainly become the dumping ground for all the perverse and inexplicable phenomena of human conduct.

None of the people who spoke of the mind bothered to explain where or what it was. With Dianetics and later with Scientology, there has been an attempt to state in more than meaningless abstractions the composite of the mind.

The mind exists as a measurable entity. It consists of energies and masses that are part of and obey the same laws as the physical universe. Under ideal conditions, it can also obey the laws of the Thetan. It is a halfway house between the Thetan and his body. It is at once coarser than the Thetan and finer than the gross composition of the brain. It occupies space but not necessarily in the brain or the body since it extends from the body for anything up to twenty-five feet. It is the property of the Thetan and not an extension of the body, since in his mind the Thetan stores all memories of his experiences. The energies of which the mind is composed are of the same family as 230-volt alternating current or sunlight but they are of such fine wavelength as to be unmeasurable at this time.

Four bands of mental energy have been discovered by Hubbard – Aesthetic, Analytical Thought, Emotion and Effort. Aesthetic wavelengths are estimated at 0.00000000000000000000000002 cm.; which is very fine indeed and certainly not measurable, with any accuracy, by normal means, (Hubbard does not specify how he came to measure it); Analytical Thought is given as 0.0000002 cm.; Emotion is given as 0.02 cm.; and Effort would appear to be either 0.0 cm. or Infinity, which is curious.

Hubbard’s view of the mind started off being not too different from the standard psychological view – he describes Dianetics as being only a psychotherapy. As Scientology has progressed, his view has changed very radically. Certainly the results obtained by the more standard and acceptable mental sciences – psycho-analysis, various other psycho-therapies and psychiatry – do not give much confidence as to the validity of their view of the mind.

Hubbard does not lack imagination but his claim to know the totality of the human mind and the position of sentient life in the entire universe would hold more validity if he explained HOW he had arrived at it.

Chapter 5 — Past Lives

“Have You Lived Before This Life?” asks the title of one of L. Ron Hubbard’s books.

The question is soon answered. From the “Case Histories” of approximately seventy students who investigated each other’s past lives during the six weeks of the 5th London Advanced Clinical Course of 1957, it is obvious that everyone has lived billions of lives before. Q.E.D.!

Q.E.D. – Quad erat demonstrandum – Nothing!

Those students were Scientologists who knew what was expected of them. I was one of them. I knew past lives to be a proven fact – Hubbard has so stated it. I knew that unless they could bring forth a past life with full recall, pain, emotion, full perceptions, the lot, they would be regarded as something less than real Scientologists.

No one even bothered to verify, or not, the recent past lives, which should be traceable from extant records. Hubbard had mentioned Zapp Guns, Tractor and Repeller Beams, Flying Saucers and Mother Ships and Galactic Empires in his lectures. His son, L. Ron Hubbard, Junior, nicknamed “Nibs” and no longer a Scientologist (rumour has it he is looking for a Flying Saucer that crashed in the Gulf of Mexico), was one of the instructors on this memorable course. When a student was having a lot of difficulty in making his story or, rather, Past Life gel, Nibs would helpfully fill in bits. Amazingly, many of the Past Lives sound like pulp comic “Flash Gordon meets The Brain from Galaxy X”, complete with Zapp Guns, et. al.

“Have You Lived Before This Life?” is palpable nonsense as far as a proof of Past Lives is concerned. It can probably be put down to seventy-odd vivid imaginations and the very prevalent habit on the part of Scientologists to “prove” Hubbard right. What would happen to them if they proved Hubbard wrong?

Chapter 6 — Auditing

Auditing, also known as Processing, is defined as: “The application of Scientology processes and procedures to someone by a trained auditor. The exact definition of auditing is: The action of asking a preclear a question (which he can understand and answer), getting an answer to that question and acknowledging him for that answer.” It is applied to individuals or groups by an Auditor – one who listens and computes.

The ultimate goal of Scientology is to produce a being with vastly improved capabilities far beyond anything previously envisaged as possible for human beings. To re-establish the Thetan in his rightful position of superiority and freedom and not dictated to by out-of-present-time conclusions.

The trap…

A revealing characteristic of Scientology which clouds any factual assessment is the attention and exaggeration placed upon the achievement of the Release. It is very sweet for a newly released preclear to be fully acknowledged for his achievement. For example: The instant the auditor has noted the floating needle on the E-meter, he says: “You have a floating needle, that’s the end of the auditing session. We will now go to the p.c. examiner and she will check it.” Off they go, preclear smiling broadly. After the checks by the examiner, who lays it on heavily that the preclear has made a truly remarkable step forward on the Road to Total Freedom, they go on to the Department of Success. Here again, effusive congratulations and a request to write a success story. These stories are probably the most insidiously effective part of the conditioning of a Scientologist.

“I have finally discovered what I was doing wrong all my life and can say with conviction that never again will I make those mistakes. I am eternally grateful to my auditor, the staff of this great organisation and especially L. Ron Hubbard, who gave this priceless gift to all Mankind. Thank you Scientology.” Some success stories are even more gushing.

This is written within thirty minutes of the preclear hitting Release. If the following day he feels the same morbid way he has felt for years, it is very difficult to take back his success story. If he refuses to write the story, he is obviously not a Release and is either an Ethics case (see later) or needs more auditing.

Does not the promise of more of this stuff to come, more Releases, more of this grand feeling of belonging to the only movement for human betterment on earth, sound very like conditioning? Does not the writing of a Success Story sound like a gentle blackmail?

Does not this whole pattern smack of a precisely constructed trap? With one hand Scientology releases the preclear; with the other it traps him into loyalty and gratitude.

Chapter 7 — Training

Training in Scientology is a process of taking a frail human and turning him into a carbon-copy of Hubbard. It is not an attempt to instil clairvoyance or inspiration, more, it is a matter of duplicating the effects of these to produce the same end result. Personal quirks and interpretations are anathema to effective auditing. This is not an experimental pursuit in which the auditor is bravely plumbing the depths of his preclear’s mental and spiritual being. Auditing is like flying a jet, you do it precisely or you are in trouble!

Scientology is in the direct tradition of Buddhism, that is, it follows most closely the teachings of Gautama Siddhartha, 563-483 B.C., the Buddha, in placing responsibility for the achievement of Nirvana (Clear) directly on the shoulders of the individual. Lao-tse, 604-531 B.C., Chinese philosopher and founder of Taoism, is also regarded as someone who really knew the answers to many of the reasons for life and people.

Hubbard makes it clear that he is in the tradition of these great teachers but has the advantage of technological orientation, such as tape-recordings, books, E-meters and mass communication, to preserve the purity of his wisdom and make it universally known. It is from this base that his conceit and intolerance of any other viewpoint stem.

Chapter 8 — Clear

There have been various definitions for the state of Clear.

Originally, the individual cleared by Dianetic processing was free of engramic influences. His I.Q. was markedly raised, psychosomatic illnesses cured, neuroses and psychoses removed, survival potential over a broad spectrum was high and he had total recall of the whole of his life with full perception.

Later, with the advent of Scientology, three states of Clear were envisaged.

“A MEST Clear … would be a body-plus-Thetan relatively aberrated, probably above 4.0 on the Tone Scale; a THETA Clear is one who can leave his body at will, and he probably would be, although not necessarily so, much lower on the Tone Scale than a MEST Clear; and a Cleared Theta Clear would have all major incidents in his time track removed, as well as have complete freedom from his physical body.”

Since about 1965, the definition has been stabilised at: “A being who is at knowing and willing cause over mental matter, energy, space and time, as regards the first dynamic (survival for self).”

In other words, the individual has gained, through processing, control of his own mind. It no longer affects him reactively, sub- or un-consciously. The Clear does not necessarily know all parts of his mind but those areas which previously could effect him have had this power removed.

Certainly a wondrous state. The Yogis and Zen-Buddhists have always aimed for something like this. If they achieve their Nirvana (presumably, in Scientology terms, a Thetan, uninfluenced by the Reactive Mind) in forty years of hard contemplation and mind-training and one thing and another, they count themselves very lucky. Scientology can clear someone in about six months of full-time work and for about £1,500. That’s known as real progress!

When an individual is checked out Clear, he is given a beautifully printed certificate that states he is Clear number -. He is permitted to wear a Sterling silver bracelet, on the disc of which is engraved, “John P. Smith – Clear No.: 22578” or whatever, and he is acknowledged.

Chapter 9 — Operating Thetan

An OT VIII is a superman. More than a superman, really, he is a God. He is: “… total cause over matter, energy, space, time and thought …” and if that is not a God, a total cause over the physical universe, a being who can gaily hurl galaxies about, then there is something badly amiss somewhere.

Hubbard is, of course, head God and as head God, he takes a paternalistic responsibility for all the others. He tells them what to do, and generally makes their life very easy by merely demanding total obedience. By the time a person reaches OT VIII, he is so indoctrinated with the idea he is a God (having paid £3,500, is one of the most convincing arguments) that obedience to L. Ron Hubbard’s wishes is not difficult. Mostly, his instructions are dished out in a similar vein to that of the quotation given earlier in this chapter. A light, we’re-all-buddies-in-this-together, incomprehensibly confused style. It is like pearls before Scientologists though. It “Communicates” to them. It is the Word of the Master. To them, it is not the deranged ravings of a paranoid megalomaniac. It is “dear old Ron communicating to us again.” If it were not so sad it would be hilarious.

Chapter 10 — Ethics

To build a new civilisation requires new laws.

Laws with a greater purpose than to maintain the status quo or to remove offenders from public view.

To get the best out of people, the new laws must be applied with scrupulous fairness. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, as the saying goes. The new laws must protect the accused from injustice and must protect the new civilisation from wrongdoers.

The new laws must be so magnanimous, mighty, dealing with trivia and weighty problems with equal concern for the individual’s welfare, so as to eventually draw the masses, wide-eyed with joyous relief, towards them. They, the plain people, beset with exploitation, injustice, a crumbling civilisation headed by leaders incapable, incompetent and uncaring, will reject phoney standards and turn towards that which gives hope to the individual, puts decent, clean-living people where they belong – at the pinnacle of all that’s best – and puts justice where otherwise there is injustice.

Scientology Ethics; the very name stirs the heart, mind, soul and stomach with renewed hope. Man’s travails, indeed the travails of all beings, including purple-furred, seven-eyed, methane breathing, sexually divergent occupants of the Lesser Magellanic Cloud galaxy, are at an end. Every being in the cosmos now has a perfectly straightforward and essentially therapeutic code whereby he can order his life and his social systems.

For “advanced thinkers” and proponents of the “Permissive Society”, Scientology Ethics will come as something of a shock. As it is a mixture of Barry Goldwater’s Republicanism, Nazism, the less esoteric elements of Communism, the sickly sweetness of television Christianity and the philosophy of Soldier Termites, it does indeed have a uniquely embracing quality but, regrettably, it makes no allowance for people “to do their thing”. Still, life is like that. Thousands of people think for years to find a more satisfactory way of getting things done only to find they have wasted their time.

As may be imagined, Scientology Ethics consists to a great degree in a protection of Scientology.

L. Ron Hubbard, being the most important Scientologist, amongst his other remarkable qualifications, is protected most thoroughly. Mary Sue Hubbard, his present wife, comes next. Then his family, with the exception of his son by some other marriage – L. Ron (Nibs) Hubbard, Jnr., who is not spoken of nowadays. Then senior Scientologists and lesser and lesser Scientologists. The non-Scientology general public – “Wogs” – is not protected much at all. Ex-Scientologists, particularly those who take overtly reactive actions against Scientology, such as writing a book on it, are regarded as so far gone as to be a menace to the welfare of the human race. They must be quietened by intimidation, blackmail, physical threats, mental coercion (Hubbard has stated, as if invoking a Voodoo curse, that anyone rash enough to take action against Scientology is guaranteeing unto himself an incurable insanity followed by a painful death. Most ex-Scientologists I know appear in excellent physical shape and, if anything, somewhat saner. Nevertheless, just in case old Ron is right, I always keep in mind that these poor unfortunates may suddenly be possessed of an indescribably horrible insanity and may keel over shortly afterwards. It gives an air of excitement and delicious anticipation to meetings with ex-Scientologists).

This is the essence of the danger of Scientology. Its actions are determined solely and completely by one individual. It does not have the moderating influences of a democratic structure. The mind of Hubbard seems composed of genius and an insensate lust for power. This unique combination has brought distress to large numbers of people already and if the lust-for-power aspect should again grow in prominence and with the vastly greater wealth and influence that Scientology commands, all Hell could be let loose.

Chapter 11 — Promotion

 “Be a Scientologist.”

“Buy a book.”

“Get trained.”

“Attend …”, “Join …”, “Go to …”, “Take …”, “Come to …”.

The advertising of Scientology services does not credit its audience with much intelligence.

“Don’t be reasonable”, Hubbard has said and the advertising is duly unreasonable.

Also it is often incomprehensible, facile, boring, boastful (always), tasteless, inaccurate, uninformative, absurd, hypocritical, pretentious, undiscerning, rude, sugary, ludicrous, self-centred, blatant, overdone, unimaginative, in fact, fairly typical of all advertising.

Scientology promotion is churned out in vast quantities.

Packaged truth; merchandised wisdom; hard sell sanity with a five per cent discount; sexy birds smiling invitingly over the top of an E-meter; “Ron’s Journal 1968” a brand leader; maximised shelf-space for Dianetics: the Modern Science of Mental Health; give away offers; special discounts for just YOU; “six months’ free membership for your name and address”; Extra; New; FREE; convenient; “try our free course”; money back guarantee; easy; bold type faces; screaming invitations; “Don’t give your prospect a choice – tell him!” – the whole gamut of modern marketing, salesmanship and advertising. To Hell with the customer: get his money.

Chapter 12 — The Organisations of Scientology

Hubbard has written millions of words on the subject of organisation. These have been in the form of HCO Policy Letters and have laid out in minute detail the function and purpose of every post, section, department, division and organisation in the international complex of Scientology organisations.

There is a Policy Letter called “The Three Basket System”, which makes it imperative that every staff member should have a “Beanstalk” of IN, PENDING and OUT baskets through which all communications are routed – there are only written communications. “If it isn’t written, it isn’t true.” At the other extreme, there is a Policy Letter called “The Purpose of Organisation”, which gives the philosophical basis upon which all Scientology organisations are structured. Rigid though the channels of communication may be, through and between Scientology organisations, Hubbard claims his Comm. System and Org. Board to be based upon ultimate truth. He has investigated the systems used by various Galactic Federations, Empires, and one thing and another, many of which have used the same political, social and governmental structure for billions of years, and has discovered the weaknesses which cause the eventual breakdown of the most complex and apparently long-lasting of these.

The Scientology organisational structure has improved upon any previously devised system. It therefore will last not for a few billion years but for eternity. It can be applied to a few individuals “trying to get the show on the road”, or to a vast planetary, galactic or presumably cosmos-wide population. These are exciting times we are living in!

Read the entire Chapter 12 for yourself to fully appreciate the thick web of steroid-injected bureaucratic nonsense that Hubbard created.

Epilogue

“Find out who you really are?”

That is what the Ethics Order told me to do.

“Vosper is to apply the Enemy formula which is: ‘Find out who you really are.'”

No good writing to Ken Urquhart and telling him, “Look, Ken, I’ve known you for years. You know who I am”.

Hubbard and all his peculiar extensions – Scientologists – wanted me to say, “I AM A SUPPRESSIVE PERSON!”

I wrote it down on a piece of paper, trying to get conviction into the very ink. I was sitting on a bench in Hyde Park, near Speaker’s Corner. People were walking up and down. They did not know there was an Enemy of all Mankind in their midst. I felt quite famous.

It was not sufficient to just write down, “I AM A SUPPRESSIVE PERSON” and send that in. Oh, no. These Scientologists want a total confession of all the dreadful things you have done in your life. If you know any, they want dreadful things from earlier lives too! They want you to completely degrade yourself. To admit you are one of the Enemies of Mankind.

I started writing. I’ve done lots of really lousy things. I cheated at school once. I thought L. Ron Hubbard was an idiot, often. I got angry with my children, sometimes. When I was seven, I had fired an arrow at a cat.

There were dozens of things like this and when I read it over, I realised what a tame life I had led. I hadn’t made any mountains of skulls like Attila the Hun, not even a small pile of skulls. When I was twelve I had smoked some cigarettes that had been stolen by another boy. Maybe that was “Receiving Stolen Property”.

I felt much better when I had finished my long list. I really was not an Enemy of Mankind.

Should I send it in? Or was it all such complete nonsense that I would be wiser to ignore the Scientologists? But the children; what would they think of me if I didn’t try to get back into Scientology? I posted it to Ken Urquhart.

Over the following six weeks, I sent in another five of these applications of the Enemy Formula. I got more and more imaginative every time. In the end I was able to picture myself as one of the most evil beings ever to have inhabited the physical universe. It did not do any good though.

I kept getting extraordinary letters from Peter Warren, telling me to “Find out who you really are”. They were not going to up-grade me. But, by now, I really did not want them to.

In the end I decided that I would not act out this idiocy any longer and went back to see my children.

The Peerless Military Commandership of General Douglas MacHubbard.

Posted: 24th May 2023 by admin in Completely Absurd, Investigations, L. Ron Hubbard
0

Ha ha … just kidding. At first, you thought that read Douglas MacArthur, who served as a career Army officer for the majority of his life. MacArthur, one of the few individuals to achieve a five-star rank, notably served in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.

To read the various biographies on Scientology websites about their founder’s military exploits, one would think they are reading about someone of General MacArthur’s importance, but the actual account of L. Ron Hubbard’s participation in World War II is nowhere near the larger-than-life figure who commanded the Southwest Pacific and became the most decorated American soldier of the war.

ONE OF TWO SHIPS HUBBARD
BRIEFLY COMMANDED DURING WWII

Hubbard’s vessel, the USS YP-422, was neither a corvette nor a subchaser but a converted trawler, responsible for patrolling coastal waters rather than escorting convoys across the North Atlantic. Although a trawler may seem an unlikely warship, its presence in the US Navy was necessitated by the desperate situation in which the Navy found itself in the early days of World War 2. Records regarding this deployment are documented here.

LARGER-THAN-LIFE IS WHAT SCIENTOLOGY
WOULD LIKE YOU TO THINK
OF NAVAL LIEUTENANT L. RON HUBBARD!

The Wikipedia page on Hubbard’s military career provides the proper perspective on this examination and thankfully, Scientology’s editing permissions were removed in 2009 “saying that it [Scientology] has changed copy to advance its own agenda.”

As with many other aspects of L. Ron Hubbard’s life, accounts of his military career are much disputed. His account of his military service later formed a major element of his public persona, as depicted by his Scientologist followers. The Church of Scientology presents Hubbard as a “much-decorated war hero who commanded a corvette and during hostilities was crippled and wounded”. According to Scientology publications, he served as a “Commodore of Corvette squadrons” in “all five theaters of World War II” and was awarded “twenty-one medals and palms” for his service. He was “severely wounded and was taken crippled and blinded” to a military hospital, where he “worked his way back to fitness, strength and full perception in less than two years, using only what he knew and could determine about Man and his relationship to the universe.”

However, his official Navy service records indicate that “his military performance was, at times, substandard”, that he was only awarded a handful of campaign medals, and that he was never injured or wounded in combat and was never awarded a Purple Heart. Most of his military service was spent ashore in the continental United States on administrative or training duties. He briefly commanded two anti-submarine vessels, USS YP-422, and USS PC-815, in coastal waters off Massachusetts, Oregon, and California in 1942 and 1943 respectively. He was removed from command of both vessels and rated by his superiors as being unsuitable for independent duties and “lacking in the essential qualities of judgment, leadership, and cooperation”. Although Hubbard asserted that he had attacked and crippled or sunk two Japanese submarines off Oregon while in command of USS PC-815, his claim was rejected by the commander of the Northwest Sea Frontier after a subsequent investigation. He was hospitalized for the last seven months of his active service, not with injuries but with an acute duodenal ulcer.

The Church of Scientology rejects the official record and insists that Hubbard had a second set of records that the U.S. Navy has concealed.

INSERT LAUGH TRACK HERE…

The entire Wikipedia entry reads in stark contrast to the glowing Scientology videos and biography accounts of Hubbard’s military service with many paragraphs basically concluding “this [claim] has never been substantiated.”It is no stretch to believe that L. Ron Hubbard possessed enough fertile storytelling imagination to have become a reincarnated larger-than-life “Walter Mitty” hero of his mediocre career in the U.S. military.

Scientology’s hagiographers love to make an awful lot of their founder’s astonishing navy service. The fact is much less flattering. Hubbard’s own oral history includes exaggerations and fantastical lies, from claiming he sunk two Japanese subs and had sizable battle injuries, to his claims that his dabbling in intercourse magic with Jack Parsons used to be without a doubt a covert mission for the Navy. These lies are an affront to all veterans who absolutely “walked the walk” and gave lives and limbs to maintain our freedom.

The altar of faith Scientology has built is primarily based on the fallacy of this supposed top-notch man and his conflict heroism, insight, research, and his supposed awesome abilities. This obeisance is bankrupting households and tearing them apart, and despite all known evidence to the contrary, they continue to be tax-exempt … with much of their cash used to spy on and harass any opponent of the cult. This is a disgrace on the same level as any other “Stolen Valor.“

“Stolen Valor” is a term applied to the phenomenon of people falsely claiming military awards or medals they did not earn, service they did not perform, Prisoner of War experiences that never happened, and other tales of military actions that exist only in their minds.

Expert researcher Jeffrey Augustine created and operates the website The Scientology Money Project, an investigative website that examines Scientology money, legal matters, personalities, and crime. His work has been quoted by Forbes, Reuters, Fortune, The Daily Mail, The Sun, and many other online publications. He brings the goods … “Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard’s Fake Purple Hearts and Bronze Star!”

The Church of Scientology has long claimed that founder L. Ron Hubbard won two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, and 19 other combat medals in WWII. The fact is that L. Ron Hubbard never served one day in combat, never fought in combat, and was most certainly never wounded in combat.

Fact: L. Ron Hubbard worked as a self-employed typewriter jockey cranking out pulp fiction for a penny a word until he went on active duty US Navy on 22 Sept 1941. Then 32 years of age, Hubbard received a commission as a lieutenant jg and did not go through Officer’s Training School or any type of combat or weapons training. In particular, Hubbard had no amphibious warfare or jungle survival training. Hubbard’s first job on active duty was to review and annotate the hydrographic surveys of Puget Sound he had sent to the US Navy ten years earlier. Hubbard was not a combat soldier and had no special background training, no special skills, and only spoke English.

Despite Hubbard’s lack of qualifications or training in Intelligence, one of the Church of Scientology’s long-term propaganda projects has been to quietly perpetuate L. Ron Hubbard’s bogus claim that he was a secret agent with the Office of Naval Intelligence. The fact is L. Ron Hubbard was a low-level cable censor in the Department of Naval Intelligence for a few months and then served in various other assignments.

Hubbard bragged that he was once a top-flight naval officer in World War II, who commanded a squadron of naval ships, was wounded in battle, and was notably decorated for meritorious service.

But Navy and Veterans Administration files acquired via the federal Freedom of Information Act disclose that his Navy overall performance was, to be kind, substandard.

The Navy archives variously describe him as a “garrulous” man who “tries to provide impressions of his importance,” as being “not temperamentally outfitted for unbiased command” and as “lacking in the quintessential traits of judgment, management and cooperation. He acts without forethought as to likely results.”

Ron The War Hero: The True Story of L Ron Hubbard’s Calamitous Military Career.
By Chris Owen.

RON THE “WAR HERO”
L. RON HUBBARD AND THE U.S. NAVY, 1941-50

1: Introduction:

The Church of Scientology is, rightly, critical of those who comment on its activities on the basis of conjecture or undocumented statements. It is only right and proper that its own statements about L. Ron Hubbard should be subjected to similar scrutiny. The only agenda prompting the production of this account is the desire to discover the truth about Hubbard’s war years – a truth which, it turns out, is more complicated than is usually portrayed either by the Scientologists or their harsher critics.

2: L. Ron Hubbard: his struggle with the truth

Hubbard ended the war (in 1944 or, alternatively, 1945) crippled and blinded after an unexploded shell, which had landed on the deck of his ship and which he was throwing overboard, exploded in his face (letter to Hubbard family, quoted by L. Ron Hubbard Jr. in the letter of 26 January 1973). Alternatively, he had suffered flash-burn injuries to his eyes while serving as Gunnery Officer aboard the USS Edsall earlier in the war, resulting in him being declared “legally blind” (Church of Scientology v. Armstrong, 21 May 1984; also “Ron – Letters and Journals”, 1997). Yet another alternative is that he had been left lame by shrapnel fragments in his hip and back (“Ron – Letters and Journals”, 1997). He was taken to Oak Knoll Naval Hospital in California where he was treated for injured optic nerves and physical injuries to his hip and back. He was officially assessed as having “no neurotic or psychotic tendencies of any kind whatsoever” (Hubbard, “My Philosophy”, 1965).

Confused? The Church of Scientology certainly is. This improbable and contradictory account was assembled from no less than twenty-seven different sources, twenty-four of which were published by the Church of Scientology itself. Scientology’s own websites present at least three different versions of Hubbard’s service career. 

As this shows, Hubbard’s followers have been chronically unable to present a coherent picture of what exactly he did in the war. This is remarkable, since every official account credits Hubbard’s experiences in the war as being the catalyst for the development of his “science of the mind”. Considering the fundamental importance of this period to Scientology’s origins, it is most peculiar that the organization which Hubbard founded has been unable to settle on a consistent account.

3.1: The Navy’s View

The Navy has never changed its story over Hubbard’s career; nearly identical versions of this summary have been issued on request for at least fourteen years (though there are a few minor corrections between the first and the current versions). This is, of course, in marked contrast to the ever-shifting Scientology accounts.

3.2: Joining Up

Despite being the son of a Naval officer, the US Navy was not Hubbard’s first port of call as war loomed in Europe. At the start of the 1930s, he joined the US Marine Corps. On May 1, 1930, he enlisted with the 20th Marine Corps Reserve, a Reserve training unit connected to George Washington University in Washington, D.C. His duties were light in the extreme: on the day that he joined, he was transferred to an inactive state and over the next 18 months performed only about five weeks of active duty (all for training). On October 22, 1931, Hubbard received an honorable discharge from the Marine Reserve. In another hand beneath this is written, “Not to be re-enlisted.” There is no explanation for either statement. It did, however, have the effect of permanently debarring Hubbard from further service with the USMC. There is no record of him trying to enlist again.

3.3: Naval Intelligence

This officer is not satisfactory for independent duty assignment. He is garrulous and tries to give impressions of his importance. He also seems to think that he has unusual ability in most lines.

– US Naval Attaché to Australia, February 14, 1942

3.4: War in the Atlantic, the USS YP-422

He is not temperamentally fitted for independent command.

~ signal from Commandant, Boston Naval Yard (Sept 25, 1942)

3.5: War in the Pacific, the PC-815

L. Ron Hubbard’s second and last command was aboard the USS PC-815, a Pacific Ocean subchaser. His career aboard lasted just 80 days; its disastrous conclusion ruined any chance Hubbard might have had of commanding another warship.

3.6: The Battle of Cape Lookout

It is specifically claimed that one submarine, presumably Japanese, possibly a mine-layer, was damaged beyond the ability to leave the scene and that one submarine, presumably Japanese, possibly a mine-layer, was damaged beyond the ability to return to its base.

– L. Ron Hubbard, action report (May 24, 1943)

In Hubbard’s case, no vessel is recorded by either the British or American naval authorities as having been sunk off the West Coast of the United States at any time during the war. Almost every Japanese submarine was accounted for. Of the 130 Japanese submarines destroyed during World War II, the cause of destruction of only five was never determined, and of those, the location of only one remained unknown. The files of the Imperial Japanese Navy also revealed that no submarines had been present off Oregon and only one submarine had lost in the whole of May 1943 – the RO.137, sunk by the USS SC-669 in the New Hebrides.

A final piece of evidence is perhaps the most direct of all. If one, or possibly two, Japanese submarines, were sunk by Hubbard, where are they? Presumably still on the sea bed. However, no wrecked Japanese submarines have been reported off the US West Coast. People have certainly looked for them – including the Church of Scientology, which is reported to have mounted a costly expedition in the early 1980s. But nobody has ever found them. Hubbard’s submarines, in fact, seem remarkably elusive. Certainly, nobody has been able to identify which they were or where they presently lie.

3.7: The Coronados Incident

This officer [is] lacking in the essential qualities of judgment, leadership, and cooperation. He acts without forethought as to probable results.

– Rear Admiral F.A. Braisted, July 15, 1943

U.S. Attacks Mexico!

L. Ron Hubbard, the former Naval Captain who went on to start the Church of Scientology, ordered the shelling of the Coronados Islands on June 28, 1943. The problem is, the islands weren’t—and aren’t—part of the United States. They’re part of Mexico.

Hubbard was the Captain of PC-815, a 170-foot submarine chaser, and was ordered to conduct maneuvers in the waters off of San Diego. After the exercises were completed, Hubbard unwittingly ordered the PC-815 to enter Mexican waters and anchor off the southernmost of the craggy Mexican islands.

According to an investigative board convened two days later, “An undetermined number of splashes were observed in the water in the direction of land during the firing.” The board also noted, “Evidence of shells hitting land or rocks on the Northern end of South Coronados Island was observed on two separate instances during the firing.”

3.8: “Mister Roberts” and the USS Algol

Almost as soon as Hubbard was relieved of commanding the USS PC-815, he reported sick. On July 15, 1943 – the same day as Rear Admiral F.A. Braisted had sent a letter of admonition concerning the unfortunate shelling of Mexico’s Coronado Islands – Hubbard was put on the sick list in San Diego after complaining of a variety of problems, ranging from epigastric pains to back pains to malaria. According to a doctor’s report, Hubbard claimed to have suffered a previous bout of malaria sixteen months earlier in a “combat area”. In January 1942, he had been in southern Australia – hardly a war zone – and had not been diagnosed with malaria then or thereafter; no diagnosis of malaria appears anywhere in his extensive medical files. In his private papers, he admitted that his claims of illness were prompted not by genuine symptoms but by a desire to avoid disciplinary action. He wrote home to inform the family that he was in the hospital because he had been injured when he picked up an unexploded shell from the deck of his ship; it had exploded in mid-air as he threw it over the side.

Hubbard remained on the sick list for seventy-seven days, until it was finally determined that he had one genuine complaint – a duodenal ulcer. 

3.9: “Crippled and blinded”

Blinded with injured optic nerves, and lame with physical injuries to hip and back, at the end of World War II, I faced an almost non-existent future. My service record states: “This officer has no neurotic or psychotic tendencies of any kind whatsoever,” but it also states “permanently disabled physically.”
– L. Ron Hubbard, “My Philosophy”, 1965

Hubbard’s last active post with the US Navy took him, at his request, to Princeton, New Jersey in late September 1944. He was one of the hundreds of officers from all arms of the United States Armed Forces who underwent a three-month course in “Military Government” at the Navy Training School in Princeton. This prompted later claims that he had “attended Princeton University”, perhaps even as a post-graduate. 1 As usual, the truth was far less impressive: the US Government had taken over some of the buildings on Princeton’s campus and used them for official training classes.

Hubbard never again performed active duty for the US Navy, but he still remained a commissioned officer until October 30, 1950. The intervening period was colorful, to say the least: he befriended the brilliant JPL scientist and black magician Jack Parsons, eloped with Parsons’ girlfriend, married her bigamously, wrote new pulp fiction stories, earned a conviction for petty theft and invented a mental therapy which was “a milestone for Man comparable to his discovery of fire and superior to his inventions of the wheel and the arch” (if Hubbard’s own hype is to be believed). This period is well-documented in chapter 7 of Russell Miller’s Bare-Faced Messiah (1987).

3.10: Hubbard’s Medals

The most likely explanation for the inconsistencies is that the document is a clumsy forgery – conceivably cooked up by Scientology officials but more likely concocted by Hubbard himself, to support his claims to have been a highly-decorated war hero. It may be significant that the document was apparently not sent to the US Navy to support Hubbard’s 1974 request for his medals. It is possible that the document was forged to rebut, for the benefit of his followers, the US Navy’s assertion that the four medals which Hubbard received were the only decorations he had earned. According to Gerry Armstrong, formerly custodian of Hubbard’s personal papers, Hubbard had in his possession a number of blank US Navy forms. If this is true then it considerably increases the likelihood that the forgery was Hubbard’s own work.

As for the 21 decorations shown in the photograph circulated by Scientology, their origin is a mystery. Hubbard evidently did not have them in 1974, as his request to the US Navy indicates; the US Navy only sent him four; so where did the other seventeen come from? The most probable answer – tawdry though it is – is that Hubbard, or his agents, bought them or had them donated by Scientologist war veterans, and then claimed falsely that they were his. These claims are still being made by the Church of Scientology.

Scientology versus the United States Navy…

Scientology record of service. Click for full size.

U.S. Navy record of service. Click for full size.

4.1: Uncovering the Evidence

The floodgates really opened in 1986, following Hubbard’s death on January 24 that year. His service records were now public property and inquiries were not long in coming. The first neutral agency to obtain a full copy of the records was the Los Angeles Times, which submitted a request on September 9, 1986. The Navy also received requests from British authors Russell Miller (Bare-Faced Messiah) and Jon Atack (A Piece of Blue Sky), as well as from many other people subsequently.

4.2: The Intelligence Connection?

In 1984, L. Ron Hubbard’s service record came under close scrutiny during the trial of his former archivist, Gerry Armstrong. Witnesses were cross-examined on matters documented in the record, and Scientology itself placed Hubbard’s former second-in-command, Thomas Moulton, on the witness stand. The results were disastrous for Scientology. The case was lost and the judge found that Hubbard had lied systematically about his past. The records themselves ended up either being read into the proceedings or were entered as exhibits in the case. Either way, many of the more damaging documents were now part of the public record.

4.3: Verifying the Evidence

In short, all the evidence appears to be in favor of the official record of Hubbard’s service career; there is next to no evidence in favour of the wilder claims that he and his organization have made over the years. This is not to say that such evidence does not exist. But if that is the case, it is very strange that Scientology should not have produced it in all this time.

4.4: Claim and counter-claim

Hubbard was machine-gunned/broke an ankle in action against the Japanese/was injured by shrapnel fragments in his hip and back.

~(Thomas Moulton testimony in Armstrong trial, 1984 / “Ron The Poet/Lyricist”, 1996 / “Ron – Letters and Journals”, 1997)

Hubbard’s US Navy and Veterans Administration medical files show that he did not suffer any combat-related injuries but instead suffered mainly from a duodenal ulcer, for which he received treatment. He was not awarded the Purple Heart. His autopsy in January 1986 revealed no sign of healed gunshot wounds.

Sources: L. Ron Hubbard summary record of service; Hubbard’s Veterans Administration file; US Navy records of medical examinations of Hubbard; L. Ron Hubbard autopsy report

5: Conclusions

Hubbard’s motives for lying about his naval service are a matter for speculation – he is now dead and he never publicly acknowledged that he might have misstated the facts. Critical biographies of Hubbard have quoted former aides and colleagues of Hubbard (as well as statements by the man himself) portraying him as a man with a big ego and small regard for literal truth. This is not, of course, a picture which the Church of Scientology recognizes.

The problem for Scientologists is that they believe (or are encouraged to believe, at least) that Hubbard was a paragon of honesty and truthfulness. But in cross-referencing his own statements, it is clear that he said different things to different people at different times – and contradicted himself.

The reader can judge for himself whether the Church of Scientology has repeatedly (though not consistently) lied about Hubbard’s service with the US Navy. What is beyond dispute is that it has and continues to promote counterfactual information on the subject, that it is in possession of documentation contradicting its and Hubbard’s accounts, and that it has completely failed to document most of its statements, even those verified in Hubbard’s record. For an organization that stresses the importance of truthfulness, honesty, and the accurate evaluation of data, this is not an impressive performance. Hubbard’s naval career is not a religious question subject to theological debate, but a simple matter of well-documented history. Others may guess at the reasons for the Church’s behavior; I have confined myself to documenting it.

6.: Acknowledgements
7.: References

Hubbard subsequently invented his own military-esque Navy, the Sea Org.

Imagine a priesthood where they wear uniforms like the Navy’s, are disciplined like Marines and do as much real work to advance a mission as any nonner [Non-Sortie Producing Motherf–kers (a sortie is an air mission with one take-off and one landing). Nonners hate that and no one cares.] in the Air Force, and are worked like Army privates with none of the pay and benefits. If that sounds appealing, you’re ready for Scientology’s Sea Org, a paramilitary “fraternal organization” comprised of the most devoted Scientology has to offer.

With a reported 6,000 members, the Sea Org is Scientology’s version of a religious order. The symbol of two palm fronds around a star is supposedly the emblem of the Galactic Confederacy seventy-five million years ago. Led by the space lord Xenu, the Galactic Confederacy killed a bunch of people with hydrogen bombs in a volcano. Or something. Yes, it sounds ridiculous, but so do a lot of religions if you think about it. We’re not here to make fun of religion, we’re here to talk about this particular one’s Xenu-damned Navy.

We asked ChatGPT for a poetic interlude…

Write a 5 part iambic pentameter poem about L. Ron Hubbard’s hyperbolized military career: served in all five theaters of World War II, commanded a Corvette of squadrons, sunk a Japanese submarine, won a Purple Heart, and was awarded 21 service medals … using William Shakespeare’s “To be or not to be” from Hamlet as a style guide.

“To Be A Hero, or Not To Be A Hero”

To serve or not to serve, a noble quest,
A fate to fight in five warring theaters,
An honor for one so brave, to do their best
And strive for victory in every measure.To lead or not to lead, a greater test,
A Corvette of squadrons to command, B
ravely bring the fight against the rest
And do heroic deeds with a steady hand.To sink or not to sink, the greatest feat,
A submarine of Japan to undo,
The courage to face such a deadly threat
And prove the strength of one’s mettle true.To win or not to win, a Purple Heart,
A medal of honor to award,
To stand and fight, no matter the start
And stand tall with respect evermore.To be or not to be, a champion,
A total of twenty-one medals for show,
A hero of the battlefield and then
A legacy of courage to bestow.

Did L. Ron Hubbard curse a World War II ship?

PC-815 running trials on the Columbia River in Oregon, 1943. US Navy Photo

Commissioned in 1943, PC-815 would go on to earn the name “The Jinxed Sub-Chaser”. Lt (j.g.) L. Ron Hubbard (the future founder of Scientology) was the first man to take the helm, only to be relieved of command three months later following a series of embarrassing incidents (including the shelling of Mexican territory) that caused his superiors to lose faith in his ability. The next few years were uneventful for the PC-815 until Sept. 11, 1945, when it collided with the destroyer USS Laffey (DD-724), burst into flames and sank.

A letter to the VA was written on October 15, 1947. It’s a man determined for psychological assistance that, reportedly, he by no means received.

Somehow, as history notes as an event of galactic irony, he began writing a book teaching people how to obtain the very mental guidance and instruction he was so unfortunately denied.

Scientology has employed one of the most incredible defense tactics used by Allied convoys throughout the Battle of the Atlantic … The Zig-Zag Clock. Zig-zagging – the practice of frequently altering direction to port or starboard – was designed to disguise a convoy’s true course and confuse the enemy.

U.S. Maritime Commission Zig-Zag Control Clock, circa 1942-1950 ZAA0190

Jeff Wasel, Ph. D., Debunking Military Lies.

Part 1: Hubbard’s Tales from the South Pacific.

For the most part, Hubbard served his country honorably in a time of war; it’s his exploiting his time in the Navy to further Scientology, as well as embellishing his service record, personal decorations, and overall contribution to the war effort that I find repellent.

Part 2: Hubbard’s Australian Idyll.

The record shows that he volunteered to serve his country in a time of war, was deployed to combat theatre, and once there, could have made a contribution. Yet this reality wasn’t enough for Hubbard, and he would go on to exaggerate and lie about his Pacific service for many more years.

Part 3: Hubbard Fibs His Way Home.

What emerges from my work is a hybrid narrative that like many of Hubbard’s stories, narratives and anecdotes, reflects some truth among the many lies. This particular series of events is important in Hubbard’s mythology. By debunking the veracity of Hubbard’s tale here, we are also debunking the very foundations of Scientology. Like his fanciful narrative of espionage on Java and saving Australia, his homeward-bound odyssey reflects his hubris and predisposition to constantly exceed his authority. More sinisterly, it shows his selfishness and cowardice, as in falsifying orders to return home from Honolulu via air, he undoubtedly bumped a more deserving fellow serviceman, or worse, a military dependent or other, more worthy passenger, as well as avoiding a potentially hazardous journey by ship.

Part 4: Hubbard’s Fibs and Follies Afloat.

In Part Four, we turn to Hubbard’s brief time as a cable censor, his disastrous first attempt at command, and his eventual admission to the Submarine Chaser Training Center (SCTC) in Florida. We’ll look at Hubbard’s record as associated with the converted fishing trawler Mist, eventually recommissioned as the coastal patrol craft USS YP-442, as well as the Church of Scientology’s claims about his combat record in the Battle of the Atlantic. I’d like to once again thank Chris Owen in particular for his previous research, which was invaluable to me in providing much of the historical context for this post. 

Part 5: The Not So Great “Battle of Cape Lookout”.

The events here cross the line from normal incompetence to a Walter Mitty-like delusional fantasy, where, in the space of 55 hours at the helm of the USS PC-815, Hubbard attacked two Japanese submarines that existed only in his imagination. The narratives that emerge from this event provide a powerful foreshadowing of Hubbard’s pattern of lies, self-aggrandizing fantasy, and fraudulent conduct that would define so much of his later life, especially in regard to his military service.

And, as we usually say here at PseudoScientology…

Ranker digital media pulls back the curtain on Scientology.

Posted: 24th May 2023 by admin in Investigations, L. Ron Hubbard, Magick
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And it’s not some old guy (aka: Wannabe Wizard) pulling handles and turning dials.

Ranker is a digital media company based in Los Angeles. The site offers research on entertainment, brands, sports, food, and culture. Ranker claims they have one of the largest opinion databases, with over a billion votes cast from millions of subjective voters. Ranker has hundreds of thousands of opinion lists. These lists are the source of many pop culture, industry, and technology publications, including television and radio. Ranker aims to collect individual user votes, track them on various lists, and show correlations between interests across pop culture.

The Ranker blog insists that its content is ranked with integrity and built by people with experience…

Clark Benson is a serial entrepreneur with 5 startups under his belt including an internet exit eCrush to Hearst in 2006.

Clark Benson is a serial entrepreneur with 5 startups under his belt including an internet exit eCrush to Hearst in 2006.

Ranker aims to be the definitive source of rankings on everything from film to sports to food. We believe the opinion of millions is more relevant (and far more predictive) than the opinion of one writer or critic.

It’s our reason for being and hence, muy importante! We are well aware that opinions are subjective, and technically there is no “right or wrong answer” to an opinion-based question… but still. The single biggest reason Clark Benson started Ranker was to get away from the majority of ranked lists being one ‘expert’ review or a random blogger’s opinion.

Ranker lists are built by people who have experience with what they’re ranking… in other words, by the “wisdom of crowds”.

In 2021, Ranker posted a review of Scientology and L. Ron Hubbard. Some of their content was … shall we say, eye-opening.

Scientology Was Inspired By Black Magic, And L. Ron Hubbard Believed He Was The Devil.

Crowley was an English occultist and ceremonial magician.

…what many folks may not know about the science-fiction-novelist-turned-religious-leader is that Scientology is based on black magic. Hubbard discovered the teachings of famed occultist Aleister Crowley and applied them to his own made-up religion. Crowley founded the religion of Thelema, identifying himself as the prophet entrusted with guiding humanity into the Æon of Horus in the early 20th century.

Hubbard became obsessed with the teachings of Crowley after meeting rocket scientist and Satanist Jack Parsons.

Carrying the description of the church of Scientology well into weirdness beyond the “Twilight Zone,” the author at Ranker in another post offers, “12 Surprising Ways Scientology Is Kind of Like the Church of Satan.” Yikes!

BACK TO BLACK MAGIC

L. Ron Hubbard Believed He Was Satan.

Hubbard’s eldest son, Lafayette Ronald Hubbard, Jr., left Scientology in 1959. He changed his name to Ronald DeWolf and began to expose his father for the charlatan he was.

DeWolf told Penthouse magazine in a 1983 interview, “Black magic is the inner core of Scientology,” and that Hubbard didn’t worship Satan… “He thought he was Satan.” 

Hubbard May Have Taken Part In Child Sacrifice.

In multiple interviews, Hubbard’s son Ronald DeWolf claimed to have seen his father carrying out a variety of classic satanic rituals. In a 1983 interview with Penthouse, DeWolf said he walked in on his father either committing a child sacrifice or attempting to abort a baby with a clothes hanger. 

Hubbard Wanted To Invoke The Antichrist.

Xenu is discovered in Scientology’s OT III.

Scientology is a shadowy group, and it’s hard to discover exactly what’s in its upper echelons. Most people are aware OT Level III reveals the existence of “Xenu,” an evil alien who Hubbard claimed had trapped our souls on Earth. But there’s a higher OT level that allegedly reveals Hubbard created the Church of Scientology in order to bring about the Antichrist.

In 1988, the first people who paid the $28,000 to go to Level VIII allegedly discovered Hubbard was claiming to be the Antichrist.

Hubbard Tried To Create The “Moonchild” Through Ritual Sex Magic.

While Hubbard was living with rocket scientist/satanist Jack Parsons, the two men attempted to bring upon the “moonchild,” an astral child created through sex magic and then put into a physical womb. Once the child is born, it becomes Babalon, a warrior goddess.

Hubbard Was Upset His Son Wasn’t The Antichrist.

DeWolf told Penthouse in 1983 that his father tried to abort him when he decided that the boy wasn’t going to bring about Hell on Earth: “According to him and my mother, he tried to do it with me. I was born at six and a half months and weighed two pounds, two ounces. I mean, I wasn’t born: this is what came out as a result of their attempt to abort me. It happened during a night of partying – he got involved in trying to do a black magic number.”

From Tony Ortega’s Underground Bunker: “Never public: L. Ron Hubbard Jr.’s devastating 1972 takedown of his father and Scientology.”

Nibs was L. Ron Hubbard’s first child, born in 1934, and from about 1952 to 1959 he was a key member of his father’s staff, helping to develop Scientology in its early days.

One thing my father influenced (which most fathers have no effect on) is that my birth would be premature. Although many Scientologists believe that they can remember the details of their birth (and sometimes incidents that happened while they were in the womb), the following information came from my mother, Margaret Louise Grubb whom everyone called “Polly,” and grandmother, Ledora May and not my memory.

My father had a very fiery temper and he was not averse to using his fists as well as his words in order to emphasize a point to my mother. The night before I was born on May 7, 1934, 8:05 A.M., the two of them had a vicious fight after a party, and although my mother was approximately five months pregnant, he beat her up. She went into premature labor and I was born.

It was amazing that I even survived, for I weighed 2 pounds 2 ounces at birth. I was named L. Ron Hubbard, Jr., but immediately nicknamed “Nibs,” for all during my mother’s pregnancy, my grandfather kept asking her “How is his Nibs?” When I was born, they sent him a telegram saying “His Nibs is born,” so it became and still remains my nickname.

The “New Era” Symbol Has Satanic Roots

Many theorists believe that, as a nod to Hubbard’s Satanic inspiration, the New Era logo contains two triangles, each of them with corners at 60 degrees; in Crowley’s numerology 60 becomes 6 and adds up to 666.

“Going Clear” Was Thought Up By Crowley, Not Hubbard. 

Scientology has a hierarchical structure where devotees work their way up to being “clear,” a state where you have no connection to your “reactive mind” or harmful memories from a past life … [but] you have to pay more and more money.“

A similar pay structure existed in the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO), where students of Crowley had to pay in order to move through the ranks and achieve enlightenment.

Hubbard Pillaged Black Magic To Create Scientology After Aleister Crowley Died.

*DeWolf told Penthouse: “In Scientology [a spell is] stretched out over a lifetime, and so you don’t see it. Black magic is the inner core of Scientology – and it is probably the only part of Scientology that really works.”

The Symbology Of Scientology Is Closely Linked To That Of Thelema.

The symbol for Thelema, a philosophy taught by Crowley, is a series of triangles all intersecting in a clover. It’s visually similar to Scientology’s cross overlaying another cross. The New Era symbol is reminiscent of Crowley and his obsession with Egyptian symbology. 

Hubbard And Crowley Both Used Sex As A Means Of Control.

For Hubbard, sex was a way to control the followers of Scientology. His son said when someone joined the fold, “the first thing we [Scientology] wanted to know about someone we were auditing was his sexual deviations.” 

Crowley And Hubbard Were Both Anti-Psychology.

Crowley wrote that psychoanalysis was “upholding a fraud… psychoanalysts have misinterpreted life, and announced the absurdity that every human being is essentially an anti-social, criminal, and insane animal.”

Hubbard would later write in Dianetics: “We discover psychoanalysis to have been superseded by tyrannous sadism, practiced by unprincipled men… This, then, is the end of the trail for psychoanalysis – a world of failure and brutality.”

Hubbard Claimed Crowley Was His Friend Even Though He Never Met Him.

In 1952, Hubbard was recorded giving a lecture where he said: “It’s fascinating work in itself, and that’s work written by Aleister Crowley, the late Aleister Crowley, my very good friend.”

To be included among the nearly 7,000,000 other people who have read Ranker’s articles on Scientology, follow this link.

That’s all folks.

Commodore L. Ron Hubbard … a Sea Org flotilla adrift on an ocean of B.S.

Posted: 23rd May 2023 by admin in L. Ron Hubbard, Past Lives, Sea Org
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The first writings in Scientology regarding past lives date from around 1951 and slightly earlier. In 1960, Hubbard published a book on past lives entitled “Have You Lived Before This Life.” In 1968 he wrote “Mission into Time,” a report on a five-week sailing expedition to Sardinia, Sicily, and Carthage to see if specific evidence could be found to substantiate L. Ron Hubbard’s recall of incidents in his own past, centuries ago.

WHAT DID HUBBARD’S EXPEDITION
ACTUALLY DISCOVER?

The Scientology website explains “past lives.”

Hubbard taught that engrams can have accumulated not merely during one’s present lifetime but also in past lives. In Have You Lived Before This Life? he stated (p. 1) that “the existence of past lives is proven* in Scientology” and he presented various narratives from people recounting events from past lives.

In Mission into Time (originally published under the title A Test of Whole Track Recall) he told of the time when he was a sailor in Carthage about 200 b.c. Furthermore, he stated (p. 69) that “I know with certainty where I was and who I was in the last 80 trillion years.**”

Past lives is not a dogma in Scientology, but generally Scientologists, during their auditing, experience a past life and then know for themselves that they have lived before. (What Is Scientology?, p. 643)

*Imhotep’s Note: Narratives involving people “recounting events from past lives” is not verifiable proof. “Proof” requires evidence sufficient to establish a thing as true, or to produce belief in its truth. “Evidence,” in a legal sense, is data presented to a court or jury in proof of the facts in issue and which may include the testimony of witnesses, records, documents, or objects. The question was offered to ChatGPT…

The recounting of “past lives” by people in Scientology auditing sessions does not relate to verifiable truth and is likely influenced by hypnotic suggestion. The idea of past lives is not supported by scientific evidence, and the recounting of these events during auditing sessions may be the result of a person’s suggestibility under hypnosis, which is a common practice in Scientology.

**Imhotep’s Note: Not to put too fine a point on Hubbard’s “Whole Time Track” calculations, but according to his notes about Operating Thetan Level III, his account of Xenu flying frozen bodies from his planet to Earth was 76 million years ago.

EXCERPTS FROM THE BOOK…

Mission into Time
by L. Ron Hubbard

Preface:

As will readily be seen from the biography, the subject of past lives and the missions recounted in this book are but one chapter in the long, exciting and continuing story of Scientology and its Founder, L. Ron Hubbard. Past lives were first encountered by Dianetic auditors in the very early ’50s, and today in Scientology there is overwhelming evidence of their existence and the effects they create upon our present lifetime.

As L. Ron Hubbard has said, “The weird idea is that one only lives but once.” Dianetics and Scientology contain the answers to the mysteries not only of past lives, but of this one and of lives to come, as well. The Afterword, following the Glossary, tells you where and how you, too, can find these answers.

Mission Into Time:

WHEN I go on a cruise, people get curious as to what it’s all about and, perhaps, would like to know something about it. I’d like to tell you now about a very successful five-week cruise that we have just completed.

Quite obviously, we weren’t sunk because we came back. We make a habit of that in the Sea Org -‘We Come Back.’

The purpose of the cruise was to test whole track recall.

A lot of people fool around with this subject. In any spin-bin you can find “Cleopatra,” “Napoleon” and “Julius Caesar.” You have people around who are always telling you who they’ve been. It seems that the only lives they’ve led are the ones you’ll find in the Encyclopedia Britannica.

The Sea Organization, as you may know, has many types of missions so we made this test of whole track recall into a mission-type game. Not that we had anything wrong with our recall and not that I needed it proven particularly, but I decided we would make a checkup on whole track recall a part of our operational schedule.

What I would do is write down “so and so and such and such and so and so and there you’ll find the so and so and such and such.” Then we would call the object or location of what we were looking for ‘the target.’

TARGETS

THE first of our targets was on the southeast corner of Sardinia in the ancient city of Nora, an early Phoenician, then Carthaginian, then Punic, then slightly Roman city that perished in the second or third century A.D.

The difficulties involved in this situation were created by the archaeologists. Some people can take dirt or leave it alone but an archaeologist has to maul it about. He has a thing on bricks and things, you see, and he’s got to sort these things out to see if “this brick is older than that brick” and, if it is, then “the women of Nora, of course, wore high-heeled shoes.” Anybody could have told them that!

Actually, what they do when they do the “put together”* is they have someone along who’s been in the city beforehand and who has some dim recall. He reconstructs it all scientifically as near as he can figure out, but he makes a lot of mistakes because he doesn’t do it with an E-Meter.Then they write up a bunch of lies in some history book and give you a bunch of wrong dates so , when you study history as a kid, you practically spin. These archaeologists had been at Nora and it looked like they’d been trying to bury a bone or something of the sort.

I wrote up the target involved in the situation and it was “way back when.”

I should be careful about this sort of thing because my reputation is always at stake. There are tremendous numbers of people around who keep saying, “Ron ought to be … ” My only answer to them is “Ron is.”

My sins are probably no greater nor less than anybody else’s but I often wonder if they weren’t more boring and often , in some places, more interesting. I’ve missed all the high points people are supposed to have on the whole track , such as being Julius Caesar.

Anyway, I was over in Carthage about the second or third century B.C., operating there with the Carthaginian Fleet.

I used to have a pretty good time around Carthage – nice sailing water and so on. Around 200 B.C., I knew a girl over in Nora (it wasn’t called Nora then) who was the current Goddess of Tanit and a good-looking girl. We had a lot of good looking girls in Carthage but they didn’t come up to her.

And so, I used to sail across to Sardinia. When was going to Greece with the Fleet why, some- how or other, the ship detoured via a point to the west of where we ought to have been going and we seemed to call at Nora. When we were going along the African Coast, it was always easier to go via
Nora. Officers used to kid me about this. They seemed to think that all navigational patterns ran through the town of Nora.

It was usually a good thing that I called into Nora with a war vessel because it was almost a matter of war. The girl would say, “Hey, how are YOU?” and all the other guys didn’t have a chance for a while. If you’ve got enough war vessels and you’re making enough dough, girls usually say this. I probably could have had more duels than sunrises because this was quite a girl. She’d throw all the local swains over the hill and ARC Break everyone in the place.

There had been a secret entrance into the Temple of Tanit and, from my recall, I drew up the plans of both it and the Temple. When we arrived in Sardinia, we went to the southeast corner according to the map. This was the first time in my life I’d ever seen a map of the place. I had too much data. Really wild! Here was the entrance of new data, a map. It showed the “southeast” corner of Sardinia in a most available point as the “southeast” comer of Sardinia.

So, we sailed to the “southeast corner” of Sardinia and looked over the place. There wasn’t any basis to anything and I got completely lost. I wondered what the devil we were doing when, all of a sudden, the vessel which had been sent out, came back and someone said, “Hey, this isn’t the
southeast comer of Sardinia. The southeast comer of Sardinia is down THERE and there’s an old Roman city buried down there. It’s on the southeast comer of Sardinia just like you said only this isn’t the southeast comer of Sardinia.”

That was very illuminating. We promptly went down there and laid our eyes on the Temple of Tanit as a ruined platform. Missionaires were sent ashore to survey and map the area to see if they couldn’t discover this old secret entrance to the temple as the target that would demonstrate the whole track memory.

We lowered boats and rowed back and forth and sent people ashore. They looked it all over and came up with a result.

And now I’m going to call on Hana Eltringham to tell you whether or not it was a positive result.

Hana Eltringham:

That most certainly was a positive result. We found the base of the old temple right on top of the hill. It was built on a piece of land jutting out into the sea and it had water on three sides of it. There was the platform, right on top of a small rise. The foundations were there. It was oblong like it should have been and, over to the one side of it, we did find the tunnel. It looked like a ditch about six feet deep, about fourteen feet long and about four feet wide. It led from the side of the rise right up next to the foundation of the temple but not on the same level. We scraped around the bottom of the ditch and found it was tiled underneath a thin layer of dust and dirt. Going up right to the top of the ditch, we found a few rocks which formed a type of wall against the temple. We kept on digging there until we were quite convinced that this was the ditch that led into the basement of the temple. So, that was totally proven and accurate.

So, onto our next adventure, with this one positive. Incidentally, I heaved a few sighs over thefact that the girl wasn’t still there.

CHATGPT IS INTERVIEWED…

Introduction: The first writings in Scientology regarding past lives date from around 1951 and slightly earlier. In 1960, Hubbard published a book on past lives entitled “Have You Lived Before This Life.” In 1968 he wrote “Mission into Time,” a report on a five-week sailing expedition to Sardinia, Sicily and Carthage to see if specific evidence could be found to substantiate L. Ron Hubbard’s recall of incidents in his own past, centuries ago.

Question: What did Hubbard’s expedition actually discover?

Answer: The expedition did not uncover any concrete evidence to corroborate Hubbard’s memories of past lives. However, the expedition did uncover evidence about the ancient civilizations of Sardinia, Sicily, and Carthage that Hubbard was researching, and it helped to further his understanding of the history of the region.

Question: Did L. Ron Hubbard sensationalize the expedition in any way offering it as proof of his theory that individuals have lived in distinct entities in the past?

Answer: No, L. Ron Hubbard did not sensationalize the expedition. He was very careful to emphasize that the expedition was not intended to offer proof that individuals have lived in distinct entities in the past, but rather to provide further evidence to support his theory. He wrote in the introduction to the book: “This book is not a proof of reincarnation; it is merely a record of investigation.”

Question: In his book, “Mission Into Time,” L. Ron Hubbard writes, “Anyway, I was over in Carthage about the second or third century B.C., operating there with the Carthaginian Fleet. I used to have a pretty good time around Carthage – nice sailing water and so on. Around 200 B.C., I knew a girl over in Nora (it wasn’t called Nora then) who was the current Goddess of Tanit and a good-looking girl. We had a lot of good-looking girls in Carthage but they didn’t come up to her.”

This is a very definitive claim about his recollection of being alive in centuries past. Is this a delusion or a clever deception to impress his followers?

Answer: It is impossible to say whether this is a delusion or a clever deception. It is possible that Hubbard genuinely believed in his past life memories and was simply expressing them, or it is possible that he was attempting to impress his followers. Only Hubbard himself could answer definitively whether this was a delusion or a deception.

Question: Is the claim of being a reincarnated personality a favorite ploy of religious charlatans?

Answer: Claims of being a reincarnated personality are used by some religious charlatans as a means of attracting followers. However, there are many religious figures and spiritual teachers who have sincerely believed in past life memories and have not used them as a ploy to gain followers. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to evaluate the claims of any spiritual teacher or religious figure and decide for themselves whether the claims are genuine or not.

Question: Who are some religious personalities who have been proven to be charlatans with respect to their claims about reincarnated lives?

Answer: Some religious personalities who have been proven to be charlatans with respect to their claims about reincarnated lives include: Jim Jones, founder of the Peoples Temple; Jose Luis de Jesus Miranda, founder of the Growing in Grace cult; and David Koresh, leader of the Branch Davidians.

Question: Are there at least five more?

Answer: Yes, there are at least five more religious personalities who have been proven to be charlatans with respect to their claims about reincarnated lives:

1. Sun Myung Moon, founder of the Unification Church
2. Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, founder of the Rajneesh movement
3. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of Transcendental Meditation
4. Adi Da, founder of the Adidam spiritual movement
5. Aleister Crowley, founder of Thelema

Question: How is L. Ron Hubbard viewed by most respected intellectuals regarding his claims of lives he claims everyone has lived for trillions of years in the past?

Answer: Most respected intellectuals view L. Ron Hubbard’s claims of past lives skeptically, as they are not backed up by any evidence. While some may find his theories interesting, they are generally not taken seriously in the scientific or academic communities.

Introducing the SPTV “Little Davey Garden Gnome.”

Posted: 23rd May 2023 by admin in David Miscavige, Just Hilarious, Keep Scientology Working (KSW)
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From our “Hangin’ With My Gnomies” series.

Deep in the forests of some of our most beloved and charming fairy tales, you’ll find fascinating mythical humanoid creatures who are short in stature, rotund in girth, and cheerful in nature. These are gnomes, dwellers of the earth, protectors of crops, flowers, treasure, and , of course, all manner of bogus religious philosophies.

THE PERFECT ADDITION TO EVERY
SCIENTOLOGIST’S “REFLECTION GARDEN.”

• “Little Davey” dimensions: 3.5 inch wide x 5 inch deep x 12 inches tall.
• Durable design: “Little Davey” is made from a sturdy polyresin material that is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• Classic statue collection: This fun figurine is from our “Hangin’ With My Gnomies” series. Other designs include Karin Pouw, Tom Cruise, and others.
• Decorative color scheme: The vibrant and detailed colors of these unique garden gnomes are sure to compliment your Org or office (Note: Colors may vary slightly from on-screen images).
• Warranty: SPTV backs its products with a 1-billion-year manufacturer’s warranty. Note: possible fading of vibrant colors could occur before the warranty expires.

WHY A “LITTLE DAVEY” GARDEN GNOME?

Gnomes were once unseen, and yet still were described by philosophers as a powerful force upon humanity. Paracelsus—the Swiss alchemist of the 1500s who reintroduced opium to Europe, explained that gnomes were elemental earth beings. His philosophy suggested that every life was connected: gnomes gave their rooted earth energy to humanity, even though they did not like to interact with people.

The Garden Gnome is a figure of folklore and fantasy that has been around for centuries. It originated in the German fairy tale “Die Gartenzwerge” (“The Garden Dwarves”) in which a group of dwarves helped a farmer in his garden. The name “Gnome” derives from the Greek word “gnosis,” which means “knowledge,” and was believed to possess special powers that could help protect the garden. And we all know what “knowledge” and “Special Powers” mean to a Scientologist (wink wink).

In recent years, Garden Gnomes have seen a resurgence in popularity due to their being caricatured by the ex-Scientology group SPTV as a promotional item with the face of the diminutive leader David Miscavige. This has only brought more attention to these little figures of folklore and fantasy and has made them even more popular.

Popular new features include:

• “Little Davey” can be used to ward off any pesky pests, such as doubters of the faith.
• Makes a great conversation piece for those seeking to learn more about the fastest-growing religion on the planet.
• An attractive adornment to the entrance of Scientology organizations, as a reminder of their leader and his teachings.
• The perfect addition to thoughts of “setting the course for an ideal world.”
• Will make the perfect “Welcome Back” message for L. Ron Hubbard’s return and should be a constant presence in all of his offices around the world
• And “Little Davey” can be used as a thoughtful addition to Scientology reflection gardens, providing a moral and spiritual reminder to those who visit.

Bring a little piece of the Scientology experience to your Sea Org apartment, home, or office with the Garden Gnome of the diminutive leader David Miscavige! For just $1,995.95, you can have this unique item that is sure to add a little bit of magic and charm to your personal space. We also offer quantity discounts. This is a limited-time offer. But remember, time spent with the gnome is not a substitute for auditing, so don’t forget to get your regular auditing sessions in! This offer is not available in stores, so order yours today!

 

The past lives of L. Ron Hubbard … Lafayette The Terrible, a tale of pirate adventure.

Posted: 23rd May 2023 by admin in Artificial Intelligence, L. Ron Hubbard, Past Lives
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It will never be known all of the secret adventures L. Ron Hubbard may have imagined he lived in his famous “past lives” theories, but the technology of Artificial Intelligence can give us the clues we need to peer into the dark recesses of his science fiction imagination. This AI tale may seem a bit absurd … but is it really? Read on as the chatbot tells the tale of…

LAFAYETTE THE TERRIBLE

Lafayette knew his past lives were among those of Captain Kid, Henry Morgan, and Blackbeard.

Lafayette the Terrible, formerly known as L. Ron Hubbard, quit his day job, pooled his meager savings, and purchased a used fishing vessel. He then proceeded to convince a small group of homeless people to join him on his adventure, claiming he was a daring buccaneer from the Golden Age of Piracy.

The homeless people were hesitant at first, but Lafayette was so convincing, so passionate in his mission, that they soon became believers. He had a plan, and it was one they could all get behind; they were going to sail the seas, looking for treasure and adventure!

Smoke rising from Lafayette’s cannon fire.

On their first voyage, they made a daring move, firing their cannons at a cruise ship that was carrying a group of mental health professionals on vacation. The professionals, too stunned to react, watched in awe as Lafayette, in full pirate regalia, shouted orders and waved his saber in the air.

Lafayette and his crew continued their voyage, sailing aimlessly around the world, all while convincing his followers that he was a famous spiritual guru descended from space aliens. He wrote an endless stream of cryptic messages to them, and wrote books with strange, otherworldly advice that haunted the crew as they slept in their bunks at night.

Lafayette sees his dreams slip away beneath the waves.

One day, the homeless people grew disenchanted with Lafayette’s cryptic messages because they could not understand the strange, otherworldly advice he was giving them. They had joined Lafayette in his quest for adventure, but they soon realized that he was not the powerful spiritual guru he claimed to be. Lafayette’s messages seemed to be nothing more than empty promises, and the homeless people were no longer convinced that they were on the right path. The tension between them and Lafayette continued to grow until they could no longer bear it and decided to part ways.

The homeless people held secret meetings to plan their escape, and they soon decided that they had to set fire to Lafayette’s ship in order to get away. They gathered whatever combustible materials they could find and made their way to the deck of the ship. Once the secret sign was given, they set fire to the deck, the sails, and the rigging, creating a massive blaze that could be seen for miles. When the flames had died down, the homeless people had escaped on one of the two lifeboats and Lafayette was left behind, alone, his dreams of religious ascendency dashed.

Returning to shore, Ron bought a Blue Bird Wanderlodge motorhome and retired to a secret ranch in California, growing his hair out in hippy style, started chain-smoking Kool menthol cigarettes and spent his days watching The Smurfs. He found solace in the simple pleasure of living off the land and reflecting on his adventures as Lafayette the Terrible. Though he never achieved his dreams of becoming a full-fledged buccaneer, he was content with the fact that he had taken a chance and followed his heart. Many of those who spent time with Ron had different reflections.

The homeless people went on with their lives after escaping Lafayette’s crazy ideas. They started blogs and YouTube channels where they warned others about the danger of following the charisma of delusional cult leaders. They shared their stories and experiences, hoping to help others avoid the same fate. Their words spread, and soon, more and more people began to recognize the danger of following someone who promises adventure, treasure, and spiritual enlightenment without any tangible results. In the end, the homeless people were able to find some peace and closure in sharing their story, and to this day, they will never forget their time with Lafayette the Terrible, as difficult as it was to adjust after leaving his crazy adventure.

SPTV hosts, Aaron Smith-Levin, Marc & Clair Headley, Mike Rinder, and Amy Scobee appear regularly on YouTube to share their stories of escaping the cult of Scientology.

Again, Jeffrey Augustine at “OTVIIIisGrrr8!” hits it out of the park.

Posted: 23rd May 2023 by admin in David Miscavige, Investigations, Jeffrey Augustine
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Always an exquisite crafter of words, my friend Jeffrey Augustine (AKA, J. Swift) has totally outdone himself this time. The truth about #Scientology revealed in scorching satire is his specialty. From the “About” page: “As the Dictator of the Church Scientology, David Miscavige engages in egregious human rights abuses, financial wrongdoing using parishioner funds, and generally lies whenever he opens his mouth. The function of satire, therefore, is to lampoon malicious idiots like David Miscavige and his best friend Tom Cruise.”

Top Secret: US Gov’t Psychological Profile of David Miscavige.

Subject “DM” is a WM 5’1′” 118 pounds. Blue eyes, brown hair. Age 63.

DM is the sole authoritarian leader of a small and declining radicalized psychoterrorist organization headquartered in Clearwater, Florida. Subject responds to the names “COB” or “Sir” and our operatives must use the form of address when interacting with him.

Evaluated as a violent and paranoid narcissist by DHS and FBI profilers, subject is prone to extreme acts and irrational thoughts and actions. Subject prone to grandiose ideations such as “saving the planet” and “planetary clearing.” Subject believes this outcome can be achieved by the purchase of real estate; the distribution of pamphlets; and the creation and posting of hate websites against his critics and the former members of his psychoterrorist organization who have spoken out against him and the illegal and/or brutal practices of his organization, i.e. Fair Game. That these practices, which typically create unwanted and high levels of negative publicity, are irrational, counterproductive, and ultimately self-destructive to both himself and his organization never occurs to the subject.

For the full effect, follow this link.

An interview with ChatGPT about Egyptian history and your host, Imhotep.

Posted: 23rd May 2023 by admin in Amazing Factoids, Egyptian Connection, Imhotep's Homeboy
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In the spirit of L. Ron Hubbard’s written fantasies, I decided to use the moniker, Imhotep, as the host of PseudoScientology as a nom de plume or a literary double merely to add a creative edge to my efforts to research the church of Scientology. My earlier effort back in 2008 was a rather Spartan attempt at blogging and didn’t exactly float any needles on the E-Meter “Creative Scale.”

So here we … Imhotep was quite randomly chosen, but as we will discover, the choice is one that even the ancient God of Irony, Momus, would smile upon. And please note: I just borrowed King Tut’s golden funeral mask. He’s obviously not using it anymore and it looked really cool … and that silly curse is long past its “Best If Used By” date.

WHO WAS THE REAL IMHOTEP?

Imhotep was one smart dude. His IQ would certainly have qualified him for Mensa International. He’s even been referred to as a “Multi-Genius.”

Imhotep, which means “he who comes in peace.” Imhotep held many titles such as sage, scribe, poet, chief lector priest, architect, astronomer, magician, chief physician to the king, and second in command of Kemet (Egypt).

Imhotep received accolades for his literary mastery that earned him recognition in modern times as; “the first man of science in recorded history,” “the real Father of Medicine and healing,” and “the world’s first doctor.” Sir William Osier also commented that, “The first figure of a Physician to stand out clearly from the mists of antiquity.”

Archaeologist Zahi Hawass was appointed to oversee the restoration of the stone Step Pyramid near Saqarrah, built by architect Imhotep for King Djoser around 2780 B.C.E.

It is known that the Egyptian scholar Imhotep was born a commoner. Researchers tell us that it was his sheer talent, innate wisdom, and ambition that enabled him to rise from a lowly temple priest to the top of the ancient Egyptian social hierarchy. It allowed him to build the first pyramids in Egypt, practice medicine, and write a booklet that is sadly lost today. As a result of all these achievements, he was recognized as one of the greatest scientists of antiquity, and even non-Egyptians worshiped him as a god.

Successor to the King of Upper Egypt, Imhotep was Chancellor, Physician, Administrator of the Royal Palace, Hereditary Nobility, High Priest of Heliopolis, Master Builder, Chief Carpenter, Chief Sculptor, and Vase Maker. Imhotep lived in the 27th century BC.

Imhotep is most famous as the architect and builder of King Djoser’s unprecedented Step Pyramid complex called the Refreshment of the Gods. In this complex, Djoser became a god after death and participated in religious festivals along with other gods and goddesses from the ancient Egyptian pantheon. Imhotep placed the king’s actual final resting place more than 20 meters (65 feet) below him in the six-tiered pyramid. Even today, despite decades spent exploring the complex with different scientific methods and equipment, large areas to the north and west of the pyramid remain unexcavated and probably hide major secrets of Djoser and his famous architect. An incredible tour of the Djoser pyramid is here.

The pedestal of the Djoser statue in the Egyptian Museum shows that Imhotep held an important position in Egyptian society. This base contains Imhotep’s most important and only known titles: “Prince, Royal Seal-Holder of the Kings of Lower Egypt, High Priest of Heliopolis, Chief Sculptor.” It is believed that he was considered a respected member of the royal family.

Bronze figurine of Imhotep. The papyrus on his lap, reads “the Great One, son of the god Ptah”

A life-size limestone statue of King Djoser has been transformed and is now featured in a new exhibit at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. This statue shows the king seated on a throne, wearing a three-part headdress and a long robe around his body. The statue bears traces of stucco, and the eyes may have been inlaid with precious materials.

During the reign of King Djoser, Egypt suffered a seven-year famine. The king asked Imhotep to find a solution. According to historians, Imhotep consulted ancient writings and instructed the Egyptians to pray to Khnum, who was said to have alleviated the famine. However, we also know that Imhotep built an irrigation system that could supply water to his fields even when the water level in the river was low. Prayer built people’s trust, but perhaps the irrigation system was the real solution.

The Famine Stela is a granite inscription telling us that for seven years during the reign of the ancient Egyptian king Djoser, the Nile failed to go through its annual flooding cycle, causing a devastating drought and famine. Looking for an end to his people’s suffering, the king consulted his architect and prime minister, Imhotep, commanding him to dig for a solution in the old sacred texts. A full accounting of the Stela engraving can be found at EgyptToday.com.

Imhotep Documentary: YouTube

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You will recall that I mentioned at the beginning there was some irony in that “random” selection of the name Imhotep for my moniker. After turning to my Artificial Intelligence buddy, ChatGPT, that irony earned the adjective, “Exquisite.” As we work our way through the following interview, let’s think of Mr. Chat as the 21st Century “Hal 9000,” the famous (Heuristically programmed ALgorithmic computer) from Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Only this time, we tone down the “sadistic antagonism” and turn up the “hyper-intelligence.” Although “Counsel for the Defense” may offer an occasional “Objection … leading the witness,” I think you’ll eventually see an interesting conclusion.

Question: Did the Egyptian high priest Imhotep ever mention the Eye of Horus or was he in the same time period in Egypt’s history?

The Eye of Horus does not appear to have been mentioned by Imhotep, who lived during the Third Dynasty of Egypt in the 27th century BCE. However, the Eye of Horus (or Wadjet, as it was known in ancient Egyptian culture) is believed to have originated sometime in the Early Dynastic Period (c. 3150–c. 2613 BCE), which predates Imhotep’s life.

Question: What is the BCE time period for Imhotep?

Imhotep lived during the Third Dynasty of Egypt in the 27th century BCE, which dates to approximately 2650–2600 BCE.

Question: Was the god Horus recognized by any of the Pharaohs of the Third Dynasty?

Yes, Horus was recognized by some of the Pharaohs of the Third Dynasty, including Djoser, Sekhemkhet, and Khaba.

Question: What other gods were recognized during Egypt’s Third Dynasty?

Other gods recognized during Egypt’s Third Dynasty included Ptah, Ra, Osiris, Isis, Thoth, Anubis, Hathor, and Nephthys.

Question: Which Pharoah did Imhotep serve under and what was his title and responsibilities?

Imhotep served under the Pharaoh Djoser of the Third Dynasty, and his title was “Chancellor of the King of Lower Egypt, Doctor, First in line after the King of Upper Egypt, Administrator of the Great Palace, Hereditary nobleman, High Priest of Heliopolis, Builder, Chief Carpenter, Chief Sculptor, and Maker of Vases in Chief”. His responsibilities included designing and constructing Djoser’s Step Pyramid, advising the Pharaoh on matters of state and religion, and overseeing the operations of the royal court.

Question: What were the circumstances surrounding Imhotep’s assassination and burial?

The exact circumstances of Imhotep’s assassination and burial remain unknown. However, it is believed that he was assassinated in a political struggle for power at the court of Pharaoh Djoser. His tomb was discovered in the 19th century CE, with evidence suggesting that he was buried with great honor and reverence.

Question: What were the political consequences resulting from Imhotep’s death and did Djoser continue to be Pharaoh?

The exact political consequences resulting from Imhotep’s death are not clear. It is possible that his death weakened Djoser’s power base and led to a period of political instability in Egypt. Despite this, Djoser remained Pharaoh until his death in 2667 BCE.

Question: When Imhotep was buried, was there any official pronouncement about the circumstances surrounding his death?

No, there is no record of any official pronouncement about the circumstances surrounding Imhotep’s death. However, there is evidence that suggests he was buried with great honor and reverence, suggesting that his death was viewed as a tragedy by the people of Egypt.

Question: How was Imhotep’s burial site discovered, what type of burial chamber did he have, and what was contained in his sarcophagus?

Imhotep’s burial site was discovered in the 19th century CE by French Egyptologist Auguste Mariette. His burial chamber was a rectangular stone chamber with a simple doorway, and his sarcophagus contained a large statue of the High Priest.

Question: Where there any grave goods found in Imhotep’s chamber like gold, silver, wooden objects, or other articles?

Yes, a number of grave goods were found in Imhotep’s chamber, including an ivory writing tablet, a small gold box, and a wooden figure of a scribe. Additionally, a large statue of the High Priest was found in his sarcophagus.

Question: Did any of the objects in Imhotep’s burial chamber contain hieroglyphic scripts and if translated, what did they tell us?

Yes, the ivory writing tablet found in Imhotep’s burial chamber contained hieroglyphic scripts that were translated to read: “The great god Djoser has given Imhotep the office of Vizier, and the title of ‘First after the King of Upper and Lower Egypt’”. This inscription suggests that Imhotep was highly esteemed by Pharaoh Djoser, and was given positions of power and authority at the court.

Question: Include the translations of all known objects in Imhotep’s chamber containing hieroglyphic scripts.

The translations of all known objects in Imhotep’s chamber containing hieroglyphic scripts are as follows:

1. The ivory writing tablet: “The great god Djoser has given Imhotep the office of Vizier, and the title of ‘First after the King of Upper and Lower Egypt’”.

2. The small gold box: “The great god Djoser has given Imhotep his reward, and the title of ‘Chancellor of the King of Lower Egypt’”.

3. The wooden figure of a scribe: “The great god Djoser has given Imhotep the title of ‘Scribe of the House of Life’”.

Question: Are there any written records about Imhotep in Egyptian history following the Third Dynasty?

Yes, there are written records about Imhotep in Egyptian history following the Third Dynasty. He is mentioned in a collection of medical papyri known as the Edwin Smith Papyrus, which dates to 1600–1550 BCE. He is also mentioned in the Rhind Papyrus, which dates to 1650–1550 BCE, and in the Ebers Papyrus, which dates to 1550–1550 BCE. These documents attest to Imhotep’s continued reputation as a great healer, sage, and architect centuries after his death.

Question: Was Imhotep ever given god-like status?

Yes, Imhotep was given god-like status in later Egyptian history. He was venerated as a deity of medicine and healing, as well as a patron of architecture and learning. He was also worshiped as a patron of scribes and was believed to have possessed magical powers.

Question: Have any practitioners of the occult in the 19th or 20th Century ever mentioned Imhotep?

Yes, some practitioners of the occult in the 19th and 20th centuries have mentioned Imhotep. For example, the occultist Aleister Crowley wrote extensively about Imhotep in his book Magick in Theory and Practice. He believed that Imhotep was a divinely inspired figure who possessed great magical powers.

Question: Would L. Ron Hubbard’s connection to Jack Parsons have exposed him to references to Imhotep by Crowley?

Yes, it is likely that L. Ron Hubbard’s connection to Jack Parsons would have exposed him to references to Imhotep by Aleister Crowley. Parsons was an occultist and follower of Crowley’s teachings, and his writings about Imhotep may have influenced Hubbard’s own views on the ancient Egyptian sage.

Question: Write 4 short excerpts from Crowley’s book Magick as he references Imhotep.

1. “Imhotep, the great sage of Egypt, was a master of magick, who could command the forces of nature with a single word.”

2. “In his time, Imhotep was believed to have the power to divine the future and control the elements.”

3. “Imhotep was a figure of great reverence, and his wisdom was sought by many who sought to gain insight into the mysteries of the universe.”

4. “Imhotep’s magick was so powerful that he was able to transform himself into a god, a feat that is still revered by modern magicians.”

Question: Could the information in Crowley’s book of Magick have influenced Hubbard as he created the framework for his book Dianetics and its later iteration, the religion of Scientology?

Yes, it is possible that the information in Aleister Crowley’s book of Magick could have influenced Hubbard as he created the framework for his book Dianetics and its later iteration, the religion of Scientology. Hubbard was a follower of Crowley’s teachings, and his writings about Imhotep may have played a role in his own spiritual beliefs and practices.

And we conclude with the hieroglyph of the “Glossy Ibis,” which appears on the walls of tombs and temples throughout Egypt. They come from the Late and Ptolemaic periods. Ancient Egyptians considered these white birds with black beaks, the embodiment of the god of wisdom, knowledge, and discovery.

Now, with the complete and nearly magical irony of “Six Degrees of Separation,” I present … Imhotep, so closely related to L. Ron Hubbard that he can almost smell those Kool Menthol cigarettes.

Courtesy of Scientology Money Project: Commodore L. Ron Hubbard in his office on the Apollo. In this photo we can see Ron wearing a Rolex; his pack of Kool cigarettes; an ashtray; and his daily glass of Coca-Cola. Ron’s fake war medals can be seen on the right side of the photo. The fake medals are hanging in a display case leaning against the wall.

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