By Gio Arteaga and Blake Kim
The religious cult of Scientology has sparked both interest and debate across the world since it first emerged in the mid-twentieth century. Founded by science fiction writer, L. Ron Hubbard, the renowned cult/religion of Scientology aims to help individuals find their true selves. Starting as a small group with certain beliefs that have grown into a global movement, Scientology is a combination of spirituality and self-healing morals. However, despite its vast popularity, Scientology remains one of the most secretive and mysterious cults in the modern day.
Despite its promised higher moral standpoint, Scientology has been faced with a huge influx of ongoing criticism and controversy over the past few years. Many who have escaped Scientology say that the organization forces people to take vows of silence, subjects people to manipulation, and engages in coercive activities within the business itself. Individuals go into detail about the major allegations of financial exploitation to its “followers,” and harassment techniques which are directed at people who disagree with the ideals and morals of Scientology. These large-scale controversies have resulted in accusations that rather than being a religion, Scientology is a cult, with a focus on financial gain over real spiritual well-being.
However, beyond all of the accusations and claims that are out towards Scientology, the cult operates worldwide, offering a variety of services such as auditing sessions, training courses, and community outreach initiatives. Scientology emphasizes active engagement and emphasizes personal progress and involvement in the community’s spiritual path. Particularly, Scientology places a strong emphasis on engaging celebrities and attracting significant personalities from the entertainment world. Evidently, Scientology, the sketchy cult, has sparked both interest and debate across the world since it first emerged in the mid-twentieth century.