How Does Scientology Control Its Members?
Have you ever wondered about the inner workings of Scientology? Are you curious about how does Scientology control its members?
In her book Troublemaker, Leah Remini provides an insider's perspective on the Church of Scientology. She reveals the various methods the organization uses to maintain control over its followers, from financial commitments to social pressure.
Read on to discover the shocking tactics employed by Scientology to keep its members in line and prevent them from leaving.
How Scientology Controls Its Members
Financial and Time Commitments
Ever wondered how does Scientology control its members? The answer lies in the significant financial and time commitments required by the church. Members are expected to dedicate substantial amounts of money and time to their studies and auditing sessions. Even young members, as young as seven years old, are required to set aside at least two and a half hours daily for church-related activities. This level of involvement is just one of the ways Scientology maintains a tight grip on its followers.
The financial obligations are particularly steep. Members are encouraged to take Life Improvement Courses based on L. Ron Hubbard's teachings, which are designed to help overcome life's obstacles. However, these courses come at a hefty price. Many members find themselves seeking ways to finance their expensive climb up the "Bridge," often jeopardizing their financial stability regardless of their income level.
Strict Regulations and Social Pressure
Scientology maintains its influence over adherents through a combination of inquiry, corrective measures, and the threat of isolation. The church implements stringent measures to retain control, including questioning methods and disciplinary actions. For instance, members who commit transgressions may be required to participate in the Rehabilitation Project Force, an initiative marked by arduous labor under challenging conditions.
The church also promotes a culture of mutual oversight, encouraging members to keep a watchful eye on each other's conduct. You're advised to avoid openly criticizing the church to prevent facing disciplinary actions. This creates an environment of constant vigilance and self-censorship among members.
Celebrity Influence and Special Treatment
Scientology's control extends to its high-profile members, who are treated as influential figures within the organization. Celebrities like Leah Remini and Tom Cruise are given special privileges, exclusive access, and increased responsibilities that highlight their status within the Scientology community.
This special treatment serves a dual purpose. It keeps celebrity members invested in the church while also using their status to attract new members and maintain the church's public image. The intricate dynamics at the uppermost levels of Scientology create a world where recognition and obsession are intertwined, and the stature of public figures is molded to further the religious organization's goals.
Isolation and Disconnection
One of the most powerful tools Scientology uses to control its members is the practice of disconnection. If you decide to leave the church or speak out against it, you may find yourself cut off from family members and friends who are still part of the organization. This was Leah Remini's experience when she left Scientology. She and her family were ostracized by the church and its community, with long-standing relationships abruptly severed.
The threat of losing your entire social network acts as a strong deterrent against leaving or criticizing the church. It's a form of social control that keeps members in line, fearing the personal consequences of dissent.
Surveillance and Intimidation
Even after leaving, former members like Remini report that the organization maintains rigorous surveillance and control. The church is known to participate in individual assessments of former members and hint at the potential for initiating legal proceedings against them.
This ongoing surveillance and the threat of legal action create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. It's another way the church attempts to control not just its current members, but also those who have left and might speak out against it.
Suppression of Criticism
Scientology actively works to suppress criticism from both current and former members. If you speak out against the church, you may find yourself labeled as a "Suppressive Person" or someone to be avoided. The church often attempts to discredit its critics by suggesting they're resentful or attributing their issues to their own actions.
This suppression of criticism helps the church maintain its image and control over its members. By discrediting critics, the church can dismiss negative information and keep its members isolated from alternative viewpoints.
Exploitation of Personal Information
Through its auditing process, Scientology gathers extensive personal information about its members. This information can potentially be used as leverage to keep members in line. The fear of having personal secrets exposed can be a powerful motivator for continued compliance with the church's demands.
Promise of Spiritual Advancement
Scientology's control over its members is also maintained through the promise of spiritual advancement. The church offers a clear path to enlightenment through its courses and levels. Members are encouraged to continually progress up the "Bridge to Total Freedom," with each level promising greater spiritual awareness and abilities.
This system keeps members invested in the church, both financially and emotionally. The desire to reach the next level and unlock new spiritual truths can be a powerful motivator, keeping members engaged and compliant with the church's demands.
By employing these various methods of control, Scientology maintains a tight grip on its members, influencing their financial decisions, social relationships, and personal beliefs. Understanding these tactics is crucial for anyone looking to comprehend the inner workings of this controversial organization.