Critical Q&A

This week, a clarification on what is meant by a “past life Clear,” my honest take on COVID-denial and anti-vaxxers (I pulled no punches), the role of governments in dealing with cults around the world and a lot more. Enjoy!

(1) Apparently a pre-clear is someone who was Clear in a past life or maybe you call that a past life Clear but either way this would suggest that these people were Clear prior to the invention of Dianetics in Scientology and if that is correct how can this be because if Scientology has not yet been written how could you be part of something that did not yet exist?

(2) In a podcast with Ciprian recently, it was said “The concept of science was so badly damaged by communism that a whole lot of people fled to pseudoscience.” Do you think this statement is applicable to the anti-vax and Covid denying people in the USA? If so, could you please elaborate on that point?

(3) I was wondering if there was anything in the literature of Cultic Studies about the use of humor as a tool of exiting a cult. I’m not talking about the mistaken belief that outsiders making fun of cults will somehow cause their adherents “to wake up,” but rather the way humor can break down authoritarian indoctrination. 

(4) I used to get angry at the Church of Scientology for their illegal, immoral, and unethical behaviors.  Now, I am more angry at the American government for its inaction and enabling behavior.  Isn’t this the same type of government passivity that allowed organized crime to flourish in this country?

(5) Can you explain how and why and when the “cross” was put up on Scientology buildings? Is this just a ploy to make the public think that Scientology is a “real Christian” religion? It seems obvious to me there is nothing “religious” about this organization.

(6) For Scientologists that go to Flag for several days of auditing services,  are they required to stay at the Flag base hotel? Or can they find their own accommodations?

(7) I must admit I’m fascinated by Scientology songs like “We Stand Tall” and “Dauntless, Defiant, Resolute” by Chill EB. When listening to Dauntless, I’d almost feel like upping my status with the IAS if I didn’t know any better. It’s got such a positive tub-thumbing vibe. Like, let’s get up and make it go right, right now! How were these songs received in the Sea Org? Were they played at events? Curious for the internal take.

(8) What’s the best worst movie of the 80s in your opinion? I happen to like Aerobicide.