I came across this article and am republishing it here because it contains a wealth of useful information, quoting 3 people in particular who I know personally understand the world of cults better than almost anyone: Prof. Stephen Kent, Dr. Steve Hassan and Dr. Janja Lalich. Their observations on cults, but also the insight into how the internet is now being employed, is important. Social media is a dangerous cesspool of lies and those of dubious motivations. Minnah Arshad and Jeanine Santucci In an era when almost anyone can reach millions on the internet, where is the line … [Read more...]
Episode 68: Chris Shelton on Cult Apologists
This week we talk to our old friend Chris Shelton about cult apologists. These are the people who make a career (often lucrative) out of offering expert academic opinions in support of "New Religious Movements" -- cults. It's a racket that scientology has used to gain credibility. We cover a lot of ground here. Chris has recently published a series of articles on this topic on Tony Ortega's blog -- they are well-worth reading. You can listen to the episode here. Chris also has a podcast that is worth subscribing to on YouTube: Sensibly Speaking Podcast We mention … [Read more...]
Scientology Hates “Experts” — Unless They Are Paying Them
STAND League is a constant source of ideas of what should be discussed about scientology. They accuse others (usually Leah Remini and me) of exactly what they are doing. They rail again anti-Semitism, it spurs me to write about scientology and the NOI. They complain about "anti-religionists" it prompts something about what Hubbard had to say about religion. Scientology is "fun" - brings on a post about disconnection and crush regging. And now I noticed this one. Rest assured, every one of the "experts" scientology touts is paid. Massimo Introvigne of CESNUR., Gordon Melton, Brian Wilson … [Read more...]
Scientology and Christmas
It seems the media is becoming more aware of the truth about scientology. This recent article in the Kansas City Star is not the sort of "goodwill" and "PR area control" scientology was hoping to garner from opening their new "ideal org" and launching into a PR offensive for the holiday season. The title of the article alone is enough to send shivers down COB's spine: Kansas City’s Church of Scientology opens a Winter Wonderland: Is this some ploy? Ploy you ask? Ploy? You can read the full article at the link above. I have a few thoughts about it. Following the evocative h … [Read more...]