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About Marc Abian
Expertise
I am able to answer most questions about the abuses of and within the 'church.' I can answer most questions about the on-going Scientology vs. Anonymous conflict, and address the lies/half truths that are being thrown around.

Experience
I have studied cults for nearly 30 years, most recently Scientology after nearly being absorbed into the 'church' in the late 70's. I have interviewed a number of current and ex-Scientology members, as well as read the materials through OT VIII that is considered 'classified' by Scientology.

Education/Credentials
Masters in Religious History, with a minor focus on Cult Religions at Western Washington's Fair Haven program.

You are here: Experts > Religion/Spirituality > Scientology > Scientology > Your perception of scientology

Scientology - Your perception of scientology

Expert: Marc Abian - 11/2/2009

Question
Do you earnestly believe that none of the 'tech' practiced by the church is whatsoever useful?

If so, do you perceive freezone auditors as deluded fools on a path that leads them squarely nowhere?

Answer
Mike -

Scientology does have many basic teachings that are both helpful and instill good morals. This is the same as with most religions. Some of the beginning 'tech' taught at the orgs are indeed useful when presented truthfully for what they are #basic self-help#. This is what makes Scientology so dangerous and addicting to many people. The first few techs learned do have real life applications that can have very positive results. However, after working through those techs, you are then pressured to invest in more 'advanced' classes that are much more abstract and are based less and less in reality.

The problem with the entire 'tech' system that I see #I am not going to get into the advanced 'religious' teachings taught in the OT levels# is the idea put into people's minds that if the tech does not work, it is your own fault, not the fault of the tech. The only way to resolve these problems is to spend vast amounts of money to see an auditor and do the tech over. In fact, the further you get into the 'tech' the more money each class costs, and the more withdrawn you are forced to be. As you learn these 'techs' they slowly put into your mind that anyone outside of the church is negatively effecting your life, and they need to be either brought into the group or cut out of your life. These things are not useful, and are in fact quite harmful.

The freezone is definitely much less harmful, as they are much more open about their teachings and practices. They do not charge nearly as much money for sessions and tech either. Though, to be fair, I am not nearly as familiar with how the Freezone is set up, but from what I do understand about them, if you wanted to learn the Scientology 'tech' they would definitely be the way I would recommend you go.

So no, I do not believe everything taught by the 'church' is worthless, and no I do not feel the freezone auditors are deluded fools. I do think they both follow a system designed to twist people's hope and faith into a money making scheme. That does not mean nothing good can be gained from it, it simply means it is often not presented in a completely truthful light.

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