I noticed this some time ago, but had not gotten around to doing anything with it. Another brilliant analysis from the experts at STAND: who of course know absolutely nothing, including what Hubbard had to say... He kicks his piece off with a witty description of how to "wash a brain" before prattling on about how brainwashing is a hoax: How to wash a brain: Carefully remove the brain. Gently immerse it in a bowl of lukewarm soapy water. Scrub the brain gently with a fine bristled brush. Rinse the brain. Wrap the brain in plastic wrap to prevent further … [Read more...]
Thought Reform and Scientology
On one of the recent Fair Game Podcast, Chris Shelton recommended Robert Jay Lifton's book Thought Reform and the Psychology of Totalism . Then Mockingbird posted a comment concerning this and I thought it important to include it as a post, as he summarizes the eight criteria for Thought Reform isolated by the author. I should note, there are many excellent articles at Mockingbird's Nest blog. Here is his comment in full. I have highlighted the 8 criteria. Mike Rinder recently pointed out something that most people miss, even experts. He pointed out that the E meter is used … [Read more...]
A Primer on Brainwashing
If you have watched either The Vow on HBO, or Seduced on Starz about NXIVM, or The Aftermath or Going Clear about scientology, this article will ring a lot of bells. Many of the specific control mechanisms Dr. Burkley cites about NXIVM have direct parallels in scientology. As she says, "the psychological tricks Raniere used are not particularly special. In face, his ability to ensnare so many victims is rooted in his reliance on several core psychological principles -- principles to which each of us is vulnerable." One of the great accomplishments of The Vow was how … [Read more...]