Product Description
Nominated by Foreword Magazine as 2009 Book of the Year Award Finalist. Marc Headley provides an insider's view of life as a member of Scientology's "Sea Organization". Marc worked at Scientology's secret desert compound, which houses all Scientology management, for 15 years. The 500 acre property is located deep in the California desert. The local townspeople were told lectures and films were made there. But is that all that was happening? It is the location of a multi-million dollar home for L. Ron Hubbard, built two decades after his death. It is the home of Scientology's current leader, David Miscavige. So what really happens at the Int Base? Are the stories on the internet true? How does Scientology conduct management of its day to day operations? Could stories of armed guards, weapons, staff beatings, and razor wire fences be true? If so, how could a facility like this exist in modern day America? Hundreds of staff tried to escape over the years. Some succeeded but were never seen or heard of again, most failed. Why were people kept here? What really went on at the headquarters of Scientology? This is the story of what happened behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology. "...the Scientology cult, is I guarantee you, a thousand times more bizarre than you could have ever imagined." The John & Ken Show, KFI AM 640 "Headley's book also provides stunning material that has rarely been collected in one place... a damning account of life working for Scientology leader David Miscavige at the secretive desert base..." Tony Ortega, The Village Voice "...a new book exposing alleged details about not just Scientology -- but Tom Cruise's association with the church -- is available..." The Washington Post "Marc Headley , a former insider at the church, has written a tell-all book, called Blown for Good, about his 15 years of work with Scientology. And folks...you can't handle the truth..." The Frisky " ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Shocking and Captivating
Headley's experiences wth Scientology are as bizarre as anything Kafka created... except these events are real.Headley described a world so irrational, ridiculous, and cruel that it even far surpassed my already cynical views on The CoS. And David Miscavige is about as entertainingly evil a villain as any of us are ever likely to come across. The fact that he truly exists and has such power is incredibly disturbing. I highly recommend this book... it's at times funny, sad , and shocking. And if you are like me it will also make you very angry.

I haven't read the book, and Scientology is just friggin weird.....
but I'd give the book 5 stars just for the picture on the cover!!!!!!LOL!!! Is that the dreaded Org in the rearview mirror?!

Eye-Opening
This was a fast and interesting read about a man and his wife's tour through the hell that is Scientology. I enjoyed his writing style and could not put this one down.I did read the Billion Dollar Contract book too, but this was an easier read. More professional editing. The experiences they had are different, but similar enough to know they are both telling the truth. I just can't understand how people fall into cults like this - and based on all told this is a cult. I am glad this couple made it out. Marc's dramatic escape is detailed along with the police report and pictures. Recommend this highly.

Interesting Read
Interesting read. But, definitely had to be a Scientologist or know the lingo to follow it. Even though the author includes a glossary and tools to help guide the non-Scientologist along, it was still difficult and took me out of the narrative. But, if you are interested in Scientology and what goes on in the "religion" it's a compelling read.

everyone should read this book
Great book, well written.Scientology is horrifying and fascinating at the same time.How I wish it was all fiction! Mr. & Mrs. Headley are very brave. ... Read more

Product Description
A former top insider reveals the nightmare world of violence and abuse at the highest levels of the Church of Scientology. One review states: "At home alone, a 14 year old girl takes a phone call from Scientology. This starts a quarter of a century journey of manipulation, betrayal and sexual, physical and mental abuse. This journey leads to the highest management echelon and one woman's courage to break free. A real page-turner." Mark P. Another writes: "Amy Scobee has written a book unlike any other expose of Scientology. She actually was at the top of International Management for 20 years, and oversaw the recruitment of Hollywood stars into the Church of Scientology. She witnessed the abuse of top managers by their senior, David Miscavige. She writes convincingly of the human rights violations she endured while on the Rehabilitation Project Force, a thinly disguised slave labor camp. Her book is enjoyable to insiders and laymen alike, with a glossary of terms provided, and plentiful footnotes. This is an important contribution to understanding the controversy surrounding the Church of Scientology. The glaring spotlight eventually points to Abuse at the Top." Michael H. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Need To Know
Unfortunately, Amy Scobee isn't a writer and should have used the services of a good editor; however, her revelations about the behavior of Scientology's hierarchy shouldn't be surprising. Whenever you deal with a cult, or cult-like mentality, there's going to be someone at the top who'll abuse their authority and resources, especially the followers who allow themselves to be subjected to the indignities identified in the book. Fortunately, there doesn't seem to be the finality of a James Jones, but who knows how long before that would happen with the control issues that are so widely distributed within the Scientology cult. It reminds me of the documentary I saw, "Jesus Camp," which was about the brainwashing of children in the name of religion. With all the atrocities committed in the name of religion, you'd think that people would realize the dangers of blind faith. A supplement read to this book would be Eric Hoffer's "True Belieiver," an interesting view into the minds of those who follow without question.

Scientology destroyed my family.
This book was great and easy to read. I donated a copy to the public library in Sheridan, Oregon, where the cult has a child brainwashing compound called "The Delphian Academy". I was sent there when I was 6, and was constantly punished for having a learning disability. I was forced to do manual labor most of my free time, while the other kids played.

My name is Ian Walton. I was raised in Scientology. When my father realized how twisted it was and left, I was cut off from contact with him. He died 3 years later. That was 1983. I thought when I got out, at age 16, the abuse was over. I was wrong. In 2007, they started calling my home, EVERYDAY. They were asking for my 70 year old mother and wanted her to buy books and "come to Flag". If I asked them to stop calling, they would call 5 times a day for the next week. They did this for a whole year. What they did not know is that I had in my possession a recording of a well known Scientology minister named Wally Hanks beating a 16 year old kid that had tried to run away from "The Mace Kingsley Ranch School". Wally was also accused of raping little girls in his care, but the cult silenced his accusers long enough that he could not be charged (Google his name to learn more). Wally continued to work with children for many years and most likely continued his pattern of child abuse. In 2008, I placed the recording of Wally beating the kid on YouTube, and my mother was then ordered to cut all ties with me.

This sick cult holds peoples idea of eternity and members of their families hostage, in order to hide the rampant abuse that has plagued the cult from the beginning. I can get a little comfort in seeing a growing trend of people speaking out in the media, and exposing the lies and corruption in Scientology. I hope that anyone that has information that could bring this destructive mind control cult to justice for its criminal activities will go to the FBI. Scientology has made a science of destroying lives for profit and it needs to end.

Scientology book review
Very interesting book.I have heard so many things about Scientology so this book helped me to understand more on the Scientology ways.I recommend anyone who is interested in learning more about Scientology to read this book.Of course it is only one persons opinion and I am sure there are many opinions on this subject.

Ugh
This is no big blockbuster ruin-Tom-Cruise's life book.This is an infomative book by someone who knows Scientology well but it is not a tell-all by any means.I would not read it again.

A Great Read
As a former Scientologist this book really hit home, however, Amy Scobee tells a story that would be easy to follow for anyone. I believe anyone could gain insight into themselves and others by examining what can happen to an intelligent person whose good heart falls prey to a sadistic and uncaring organization. The book is an easy yet heartbreaking story to read - a real pageturner. The truth is, not every part of the Church of Scientology is bad and there are many, many good people who sincerely want and who do help others, however, the abuse at the top of this organization is horrific and must be stopped, period. I respect Amy tremendously for taking a stand and telling her story. ... Read more

Product Description
For thousands of years Man has searched, pondered and speculated about the true "meaning of life." But, in Scientology, that search has culminated — for the secret has now been discovered. Based on precision Axioms (self-evident truths), these are the answers — answers you’ve been looking for, answers that work. Here, then, is the Basic Book on the Theory and Practice of Scientology, with discoveries embracing every aspect of life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (14)

I wanted to know more about it!

"Scientology: The Fundamentals of Thought" is the perfect book to recommend to anyone wanting to know something more about Scientology.

It is an easy to read guide through the very basic principles of Scientology, and gives a terrific overview of the subject.

One of the things I found downright joyous was the APPLICATION.Yes, you can actually do something about conditions to bring about betterment.I've found this lacking in other philosophies.

I highly recommend you read this book, or perhaps "The Problems of Work", also by L. Ron Hubbard, to get a glimpse of what his works are all about.

I've now read the majority of the books by Mr. Hubbard and have enjoyed them very much.I've also been able to apply them to my life and the lives of those I love for the betterment.

What a gift.

I now know what Scientology really is
This book really showed me what Scientology is really all about.Very simple and to the point it actually explains the truth about Scientology and how it works and I can honestly say I'm glad I found out for myself.

This book has given me some basic tools I can use in my life right that have really helped.

Philosophy I can understand
I read this book and it struck a "chord" with me... I have always believed that there is more to human beings than a stimulus respose situation in which you are a "product of your environment".I have read many books through the years looking for answers that sound true to ME.

This book has some answers that really struck me -- right where I live.I think you will like it, as all of us have questions if we have any true interest in life and how it all works.

This book is for those who are interested in a philosophy that can be used in every day life to improve the situation and spread goodwill and raise the general tone of society, which is badly needed.The fashion (how did this happen?) is to be a "hater" for many people, and obviously this attitude is not what will save the planet. All of humanity is part of one group and somehow resolution must be found, but it does start "at home"!

It isn't very long either and is an enjoyable and interesting read.

WANT TO LEARN A BIT ABOUT SCIENTOLOGY?
This is the book I'd definitely recommend to someone wanting to know a bit about Scientology and its technology. It is easy reading and most enjoyable.

It is the basic book on the theory and practice of Scientology, with discoveries embracing every aspect of life!

The book explores what is called the A-R-C Triangle, showing how this contains the underlying principles of true human relations.I mention this as it is a favorite of mine.

The book contains much, much more.

It also answers the questions of "what's it all about?" giving the very elements of survival, happiness and life itself.

There are companion lecture series entitled, "Hubbard Professional Course Lectures". They are also available on Amazon.com.

Life can be simple
Before reading this book I felt confused about life. There are so many theories - things to believe or not believe in.Me?I like something you can sink your teeth in.Something that if used, it actually works - you can get results -- no more theories or something you have to "just believe" in.This book, along with A New Slant of Life - gave me what I was looking for - a way to actually improve the quality of my life - and my family's lives.The only trick?You have to apply the datums to your life - it's not something you just think about!That's what's so incredible about this book - it's for use!Try it - you'll see what I mean ... Read more

Product Description
The complete and essential encyclopedic reference on the subject and practice of Scientology. This book contains the pertinent data on every aspect of the subject:The life of L. Ron Hubbard and his path of discoveryThe Spiritual Heritage of the religionA full description of Dianetics and ScientologyAuditing—what it is and how it worksCourses—what they contain and how they are structuredThe Grade Chart of Services and how one ascends to higher statesThe Scientology Ethics and Justice SystemThe Organizational Structure of the ChurchA complete description of the many Social Betterment programs supported by the Church, including: Drug Rehabilitation, Criminal Reform, Literacy and Education and the instilling of real values for moralityOver 1000 pages in length, with hundreds of photographs and illustrations, this text further includes Creeds, Codes and a Catechism with answers to virtually any question regarding the subject. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (68)

Public Relations half-truths and outright lies
The original 'What is Scientology' appeared several years before this current edition, and was a response to the public relations problems created for Scientology when its leadership, including Mrs. L. Ron Hubbard, were sent to federal prison for the commission of felonies - while Scientology's founder and guru, L. Ron Hubbard, cowardly ran away and went into hiding.

Two individuals who contributed to that first edition of 'What is Scientology?', and whose names are listed at the front of the book as major contributors, have since seen the light, and have left Scientology.

These two individuals are now speaking out about the deceit and abuse inherent in Scientology. One is Nancy Many, author of a book about her time in the Scientology Sea Org, titled, 'My Billion Year Contract' (Yes, that's right, Scientology has people, including children as young as 12, sign "billion year contracts" with Scientology, becoming de facto slaves); the other is Larry Brennan, a former high ranking Scientology executive, who knows the inner secrets of Scientology and is exposing them. A google search on both their names is well worth the time.

Excellent Book but ....
This book is worthless without the platinum coated E-Meter (TM).
I bought this book and paid $2300 to buy an E-meter (TM) to measure my engrams and Thetan levels.
By reading this book and implementing the methods therein and using E-Meter (TM) regularly my Thetan level dropped considerably. (Take that, Mayo clinic! )
I am already OT II now. Looking forward to OT III.
Please do not buy the copper coated E-Meters($1000). They are not that good at removing body Thetans. Only Platinum coated ones will do.
Only with the help of Platinum coated E-Meter(TM) you can audit yourself and get rid of those pesky Thetans.

Here is the suggested plan for you people to achieve OT II level like me.
1 Buy this book. : $16
2 Buy a Platinum coated E-Meter(TM) : $2,300
3 Course fees for level I and II : $35,000
4 Course fees to be pre-clear ( needed before Level I): $18,000
5 Boot camp at Sea Org : $20,000

So, for a paltry sum of $80,000 you can be an OT level II.
Go for it, you won't regret.

find out for yourself
I am one of those that likes to find out for myself.If you have been wondering about Scientology, this answers all the important questions.Much better place to find out than any other place else I have looked.There is a "common questions" section that covers all the things anyone might be wondering about or have heard about Scientology.It is always better to get information from the real source in my opinion. Find out what they say, it is pretty cool.

An interesting and beautiful book...but...
No, I'm not a Scientologist and Yes, I read every word of this rather large and impressive book.It really is a gorgeous publication with top notch printing and binding, expensive glossy paper stock, tons of photos and lots of information.Did I find out what I wanted to know about Scientology from reading it?Yes and no.The book covers every possible service the church offers to members and gives some brief detatils about each of them.They are numerous and daunting and the mere amount of them would, I suspect keep most people from having any interest in pursuing Scientology further.There are hundreds of books, lectures, courses, procedures, services etc to be done and it seems a very inefficient method for reaching "total freedom", in fact it sounds more like a full time job in Scientology to me.I don't see how anyone could hold down a real job and do even half of these Scientology courses described in this book at the same time.This would take a lifetime to do.Curiously, the book provides a copy of a chart that maps out the "bridge" to spiritual freedom and oddly enough, the church has not released the top levels of this bridge to the public yet and (again, acording to the book) will not do so until enough Scientologists are at the higher levels. Why would I want to invest my time in walking on an INCOMPLETE bridge?The book explains that Dianetics and Scientology have been around for more than 50 years so where are all the incredible results at? If this all works so well, why are there so few people reaching the top of this "bridge" and why are there not Scientologist churchs all over the place (they could give some competition to the hundreds of Baptist churches in my area of the world)? Why isn't the world flocking to this religion that works "100 percent of the time".These obvious questions are not answered.

I think the book tries to make things plain but it falls victim to its own Scientology language from time to time, most notably in the first (of many) rather tedious indorsement sections where Scientologists explain how the religion has changed their lives.Strange and unfamiliar words and terms begin to creep in (words that only seem to exist in Scientology as they are nowhere to be found in the OED) and you will find yourself wondering just what is meant by "knowingness" "beingness" "being at cause" etc. I even found the term "sexingness" in this book (I'm not kidding).Of course my failure to understand parts of this book is because I have not had the "Student Hat" or Study Technology of L. Ron Hubbard, and anyone with a current (non-scientology) education has not really learned anything and can't communicate or study "with certainty".This book claims that humanity has never been able to learn ANYTHING effectively before because it did not have the educational "breakthroughs" discoverd by Mr. Hubbard.

The book has a rather condescending and smug attitude and readers are informed that before the "tremendous research" (which is NEVER described) of L. Ron Hubbard, humanity knew NOTHING of the human mind, knew nothing about how to study effectively, and didn't even know how to organize a successful group (quick, someone tell the Catholics).There is also a weird fascination with psychiatry and a rather morbid depiction of psychiatrists as a group of cackling evil mad scientist types.This may be because Scientology itself seems to be little more than a lot of psychotherapy (albeit psychotherapy of a very unorthodox sort) and psychiatry is competition for Dianetic auditing and Scientolgy.

The book contains a description of the numerous public help groups that are part of the church such as Narconon, Criminon, ABEL, The Way to Happiness Foundation, WISE, Applied Scholastics etc. These guys are into EVERYTHING.

Of real interest is a reference section that contains the Axioms of Scientology and Dianetics.The Dianetic Axioms are pretty much indecipherable (the book almost admits this much in the introduction to the Scientology Axioms) and the Scientology Axioms are also rather cryptic sounding.I took the time to really break a couple of them down and try to figure out exactly what Mr. Hubbard was saying and came up with things like (my paraphrase) "You can measure your IQ by understanding which things are truly important."To be honest, I'm not really sure what most of them meant because they are so full of Scientology jargon.On the other hand, a section known as THE FACTORS were quite beautiful, profound and clearly written.Truly beautiful writing.

I'll admit I got interested in Scientology from all of the bad publicity it has been getting on TV, all over YouTube the internet and even in the local news and I wanted to read a Scientology viewpoint and this book looked pretty comprehensive. I learned some of what I wanted to know but a lot of things are not covered.You won't find any information at all about the weird UFO cult aspects of the church that have been covered on NIGHTLINE and even SOUTH PARK.No volcanos or galactic overlords or any of the stuff that supposedly makes up the teachings of the higher levels.The book does state that some of the "scriptures" are confidential (what religion besides Scientology has confidential scriptures that you have to pay to read?) and I suppose all the much publicized really far out stuff is in those levels. You wont find anything about all the people on the news claiming abuse in the church (although to be fair this book is 10 years old and these events are far more recent).The book also offers no PROOF of anything it has to say other than page after page of weirdly phrased "testimonials" from celebrity (and non-celeb) Scientologists.I'd like to see some studies (independent studies, not Scientology ones) of how well this "tech" the church is selling really works.I'd like to know the exact research that Mr. Hubbard did to make his discoveries.If you are gonna make these claims that ONLY Scientologists have the answers to lifes problems, you better be able to back those claims up and this book never comes close.Certainly somewhere in its more than 800 pages it could have provided something other than claims and advertisements for "services", books and lectures.And no, the word of a practicing Scientologist is NOT evidence, it is a statement made from faith and only personal observation and it does not qualify as research or genuine scientific evidence.

Which brings me to a question I had that this book DID answer.Is Scientology a religion?Yes, without a doubt, it is a religion and even if all the stories being reported on the television, newspapers and internet about the truly bizarre beliefs at the higher levels of this religion are true, they are not much stranger than the supernatural beliefs of other world religions.It is a strange religion and has the audacity (mentioned more than once in this book) to advertise the most "economical" way to pay for your eternal salvation.That takes balls folks.Most religions downplay that they are trying to get your money but Scientology is right up front with it.They want your money and they don't care who knows it.If you want Scientology for "free" then the book explains that you can work for them and get services.Either way, they let you know you are gonna pay for your "freedom" and I think that is sort of refreshing.

Much has been made on the television news lately about the church policy of DISCONECTION and sure enough, this book not only admits the practice but explains it logically.The practice SUCKS, but they are certainly within their rights to do it.Where it gets rather scary is in their descriptions of people who oppose Scientology.The book indicates that they always have a connection to psychiatry, they are "anti-social" beings who oppose ALL organisations that work for the betterment of humanity.With that logic, if you oppose Scientology, you also oppose the Red Cross, the Boy Scouts, the March of Dimes, Easter Seals etc.Again, somebody better tell the Catholics.

So what did I learn from my adventure in reading this big ole book?Well . . . I think Scientologist are most likely very nice people who mean well and want to do the best they can for themselves and for others.I think their religion seems horribly complex, confusing, controlling and insanely bureaucratic.I think it probably would drive me crazy to even try Scientology. I think Scientologists are a really easy target for comedians and society in general to make fun of because to most of us (from reading even just a few of their beliefs about the human mind)this all just seems so damn stupid.I think they produce very beautiful books and high quality products. I think they have every right to believe whatever they want. . . and I think in the end, this book attempts to make Scientology sound so good, that it couldn't possibly be true.And no, I'm not being covertly hostile! I'm at least a 3.5 on the tone scale.Sorry, I couldn't resist.

A Lot of Information
I would consider this a reference book, not a casual read.

In fact I wouldn't read this straight through, anyway.

However, if you are looking for information on any particular subject within Scientology, this book is a catchall for that information.It can also be used to lead you to other information and other books.

But it's not a casual read and I don't even think it was really intended to be read that way.

My suggestion is, don't buy this book if you are trying to read something about Scientology in depth.This is an overview book on the subject.Do buy it if you are looking for an overview.

You might find some detractors writing about this particular book's subject matter.I would suggest you check it out for yourself and make your own decision.If necessary, try the library and see if it's what you're looking for.If so, then you can buy the book as a reference manual on the religion.

It makes you wonder if these naysayers are also saying the same thing about books explaining Judaism, or Catholicism or Islam.Religion today is full of controversy, full of bad press, yet still millions are part of one religion or another.It's always a good idea to form your own opinions by reading material offered by the various religions or by allies of those religions, rather than taking the information of detractors.Why?Because you can make up your own mind and write your own review based on the actual presentation of the religion or philosophy from its own source.

So if you are looking into various religions or are looking for answers, this book could be a great jumping off point for Scientology, but, as I said, it is not a casual read. ... Read more

Product Description
The materials of Scientology comprise the greatest accumulation of knowledge ever assembled on the mind, spirit and life. Through more than a hundred books and publications, thousands more articles and essays, and over 3,000 recorded lectures, the works of L. Ron Hubbard embrace virtually every aspect of living. Here, then, is Scientology: A New Slant on Life, containing a timeless selection of Ron’s discoveries drawn from the full wealth of his writings and each one presenting a broad, yet comprehensive overview of Scientology applied to a specific aspect of existence — and, in combination, providing the panoramic overview of life itself. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Proto-New Age sales pitch for a totalitarian cult
Hubbard wrote this book as an "infomercial" on scientology before new age motivational pitches became cliche.The book is relatively short and just restates various proto new age cultural notions from the 1950's that he knew few people would object to.However, his writings in that book falsely portray scientology, which, in fact, advocates totalitarian measures in its oxymoronic "ethics and justice" system, blatant and extensive psychological diagnosis of human beings as victims of infestation with body entities that experienced implanting of commands by a sci-fi "evil lord Xenu", and the commission of fraud and criminal acts as "the greatest good".I recommend avoiding any literature written by Hubbard, as his motives clearly showed his interest focused on accumulating money and manipulating people to accomplish that.

A beautiful book
One of my favorite spiritual books. If you want to know what L Ron Hubbard was really about, this is a great book to get. It is beautiful.

Simple and Great
This book was really easy to read and made so much sense. It gave me such basic tools to living a happy life. After reading it, I have found I am a lot less grumpy and can handle annoying situations a lot better. It has definitely given me a New Slant on Life.

I was just curious about scientology
I'm the kind of person who takes from different religions, theories, and just think we all are trying to be the best people that we can be. So, I grabbed this book for the basics of Scientology...it is a great book. Non-religious andgave me just another tweek on how life can be looked at.

Sometimes I think, "Gosh, I wish life came with instructions." I get lost sometimes, this will be a book that I will reach for and read to remember and realign. I highly recommend it.

Is it really an odious rendition of Life?
This is the first title that I have read on the subject of Scientology, and with that I feel, at least in reference to this title, it is safe to say that it is innocuous.The general societal perspective of Scientology is not very cordial. Prior to this reading endeavor I was under the impression that Scientology was just some fanatical cult based on ignorance embellished by the intellectually destitute. After this read I personally feel that the societal denigration of this spiritual path is not congruous at all. I will also profess that I think the issue is not that the philosophy of Scientology is devoid and insolvent of any form of sane application; but, wherein lies the quandary is between the fanatical bigots on both sides of the paradigm: the fanatics who distort it to justify it and the fanatics who distort it to repudiate it. Did L. Ron Hubbard want to control the minds of man? No. Did he think he was the reincarnation of Jesus, or a God? No. As he said himself in this book, basically, he is a man that had a philosophy of life and death and wrote about it. If one would take an intellectual approach to analyzing religion in general you will find that there are many fanatics of the two paradigms-of which I alluded to previously-in ALL religious paths. In order to find the truth you must research it for yourself, do not go along with the reportorial ignorance that fanatical bigots of the opposing paradigms offer. If you do that is merely intellectually disingenuous.

There was one thing that I emphatically appreciated with much fervor, and it also rendered much respect for Hubbard in the initial chapters of the book; it was the fact that Hubbard stressed to thereader to research independently the information provided. He also admonished to not allow oneself to be informed on any of the subjects alluded to solely by his thinking and ideology. Especially, if you are in disbelief. Also, to grade it and analyze it against knowledge that you have independently procured. This way you arrive at your opinion of his work by your own intellect and judgment and not that of the societal perspective.

From many critics of Hubbard's work I have read those who say that a scientific principle cannot be implicated to the subjects in which Hubbard addresses. With that I disagree, because every scientific principle starts off as a hypothesis. Then throughout experimentation the hypothesis is proven, disproven or even slightly altered by the manifested datum. Society in general, I feel, has become so dissolute and dissuaded from spirituality (not religion) that I would not expect the masses to appeal to the thought that spirituality and science has already converged, or will converge. If I must, for argument's sake, find a coin to define the principles of Scientology that is inextricable regardless of position upon the subject it would be that they are merely heuristic. In the end the only datum that you have that proves if it is congruous or incongruous is your own visceral feelings, these will obviously be diverse.

To attempt to obviate an elongated and soporific review I will try to briefly cover only a few of the subjects in which I disagreed with and agreed with:

Disagreements:

- It disturbs me that this book did not have references, endnotes or a bibliography regarding some of the more factorial information given. Regardless, if Hubbard addressed this as being something one should research independently I feel that there should have been some conventional references. This possibly could be the reason some find his work devoid of any credibility. Is alleviation of these references pragmatic, or expectable?I believe it is not when dealing with subjects (science, spirituality, psychology and/or sociology) that can be very divisive.

- The book can be a difficult read, not meaning intellectually convoluted, but due to its expedited sojourn on each subject. Not to mention the way in which Hubbard writes, in fragmented paragraphs.

- The chapter on child rearing needed further elaboration on what TO DO. Hubbard spent so much time on what not to do, his intentions should have been justified on advice by what to do in exact tone and reference. I feel that a lot of what he wrote about in this section of the book was definitely ambiguous, if not down right enigmatic.

- I disagree with Hubbard lumping twenty percent of the population that is anti-social which is carried by the eighty percent who are social. With his definitions of each tendency, those being anti-social and social, I do not contend. It is merely him identifying that all people who have social tendencies (by his definition) is a positive influence for society, and those with anti-social tendencies are a negative influence on society. There are indeed those individuals that fit the bill of his definitions of each tendency that are on the opposing end of his presented paradigms of influence.

Agreements:

- Science and spirituality has long ago converged, but it is the bigots on both sides that contend that it has indeed not. Quantum physics is one of these manifested convergences, ironically for the religious ascetics and the non-spiritual individuals they will/do not see it. That subject in itself would need a book of its own to provide the suggestive evidence in extent of making a fairly represented case.

- Being a political conservative (liberal on some social aspects) I do indeed find resonance with the subjects of "freedoms and barriers". In society we cannot live in complete anarchy, we have proven throughout history that we cannot live without judicial structure. We have even proven that some of us are still not yet deterred by the existence of said structure.

- Problems are good! Issues, enigmas and quandaries are intrinsic to development and expansion of intellect and ethics. This is not in the book, but I have often said that heaven would be a very boring place. With the existence of only happiness and all encompassing serenity we would never grow or prosper. It is from our enigmas that we grow and expand. Solidarity is not intriguing by any means of the term. For this I reference the Taoist concept of Yin & Yang.

Overall I did indeed find a lot that was resonant with my own ideologies of moral behavioral standards and the moral declivity of society. There were very few items that were completely odious to me, which I addressed all of those. I will give an admonition of recommendation for this book if you are one who would like to learn more about Scientology. Remember to avoid the dissension that has been erected around this subject and obtain your own opinion by and from your own research. The subjects in this book that are covered are too numerous in existence to individually identify in context, and would only make reading this review exponentially more arduous. ... Read more

Product Description
Nominated by Foreword Magazine as 2009 Book of the Year award finalist. Marc Headley provides a rare, never before seen insider's look at life inside Scientology. He spent 15 years at their secret headquarters - a 500 acre property located deep in the California desert. The local townspeople were told lectures and films were made there. But is that all that was happening? It is the location of a multi-million dollar home for L. Ron Hubbard, built two decades after his death. It is the home of Scientology's current leader, David Miscavige. So what really happens there? Are the stories on the internet true? How does Scientology conduct management of its day to day operations? Could stories of armed guards, weapons, staff beatings, and razor wire fences be true? If so, how could a facility like this exist in modern day America? Hundreds of staff tried to escape over the years. Some succeeded but were never seen or heard of again, most failed. Why were people kept here? What was it that went on at the headquarters of Scientology? This is the story of what happened behind the Iron Curtain of Scientology."...the Scientology cult, is I guarantee you, a thousand times more bizarre than you could have ever imagined." The John & Ken Show, KFI AM 640"Headley's book also provides stunning material that has rarely been collected in one place...a damning account of life working for Scientology leader David Miscavige at the secretive desert base..." Tony Ortega, The Village Voice"...a new book exposing alleged details about not just Scientology -- but Tom Cruise's association with the church -- is available..." The Washington Post"A big tip of the hat to Marc Headley, for publicly speaking the truth about Scientology..." Examiner.com"Marc Headley, a former insider at the church, has written a tell-all book...about his 15 years of work with Scientology. And folks...you can't handle the truth..." TheFrisky.com"...well-paced and an entertaining read." Perrybulwer.com ... Read more

Customer Reviews (43)

Wish it were better written -- makes an important story almost unreadable.
I absolutely appreciate the courage it takes for anyone to write a book like this, and certainly memoirs of people taking a stand to live freely and away from group-think are critically important, especially nowadays.However, I had to stop reading after getting about 25 percent into the book because the writing was so bad.A good editor could have whipped this into shape and let the story through.As it is, the grammatical errors, the endless use of exclamation points (really, on at least every page), and the episodic, meandering narrative makes this book a very tedious, maddening read.So wish it were better.

Couldn't Put It Down
My husband and I were sharing in the reading of this book. He would read it when I was working and vice versa. Sometimes we would fight for the chance to read it as it was very difficult to put down and as soon as I cleared my schedule that's all I wanted to do - read this book. It is a gripping page turner. Marc manages to write about some very heavy stuff while still maintaining a great sense of humor.

I laughed and cried and vowed to DO SOMETHING about the horrors exposed in this touching and tremendously heart wrenching tale. Buy and read this book. You will not be disappointed.

Escape!
As a public Scientologist, I did not see the evil. Then contrary voices online and in print began to impinge. Marc's story is compelling. BFG is one of the books that helped me escape the cult. Highly recommended.

Great book
Marc after more than 15 years in Scientology decided to escape. His book gives a unique description of what is happening inside the "secret" Int Base. Marc was a top executive there. A page turner.

Decent Read
If you were ever curious what is going on in this cult, this is a good book to read. Sometimes the story seems outlandish but it is plausible that this stuff happened. ... Read more

Product Description
Scientology 0-8 means Scientology from Zero to Infinity. This book embodies the basics of Scientology from Zero (the very beginning or fundamental) to Infinity (ultimate truths as contained in the Logics, Factors and Axioms). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A great gift to you.
Real simple: if you want the basics of life, here they are. I know "the basics of life" may not mean much to you ... this is a definition of what "life" is, of what a living being is, a definition of a living being's abilities. It is what men of wisdom have sought for ages.

A good reference book
"Scientology 0-8" is not a beginner's book. It's not a book to read cover to cover. Instead it's a reference book that complements the other books. I'm not a scientologist, but I find the book very helpful when studying the subject, especially the new 2007 edition, which is almost 500 pages (compared to about 150 pages in the 1970 edition I got from the library). The new edition makes it easy to follow how the concepts evolved. There are seven versions of the emotional tone scale, eight descriptions of the dynamics, ten versions of the auditor's code, etc. So if you're studying Scientology, whether as a scientologist or just out of curiosity, this book, and the 2007 edition in particular, is a very good reference book.

good intro to Scientology
this is a good read if you aren't already familiar with the concepts of Dianetics & Scientology.Would also encourage the reader to read Fundamentals of Thought and Evolution of a Science as well by L. Ron Hubbard for continued study.

Indispensible
This is a book to not only read cover to cover, but to keep handy as reference to aid day-to-day living. It can be understood on various levels at different times... I first read it many years ago, but I keep discovering "new" things in it. ... Read more

Product Description
Here is something you can actually use day-in and day-out in the practical world of living—tools that enable you to handle a broad scope of situations that we all face in today's world.

Whether it’s raising healthy and happy children, improving your quality of communication with your associates, or having an exact plan on how to achieve your goals in life —The Scientology Handbook gives you proven and effective tools that can immediately be put to use in these areas.

Once you understand the exact barriers in the road to achieving what you want in life, you can take effective action to remedy this. And that is exactly what you get with this book.

The Handbook is so practical that anyone can pick it up, read it and apply it. It is broken down into 19 separate bodies of technology, addressing the most common problems of man, such as:

Education and how to handle illiteracy Relationships and how to maintain a successful marriage Solutions to the everyday problems of the workaday world Keeping children happy, productive and healthy Successful communication with anyone Assists for illness and injuries Overcoming the effects of drugs

Today, the need for real solutions is crucial. Abuses of every description are rampant in the world—drugs, crime, conflict, terrorism, illiteracy, immorality—the list seems endless. To have any decent future at all, you need to know this manual for living and use it.

Enough people doing so will create the positive effect our turbulent society must have.

Book Features:

Large hardcover format Over 900 pages and 700 illustrations 19 chapters covering different areas of life Practical exercises following each chapter for application Results from others who have read the book:

"Recently I went to the hospital to see a friend who’d had an accident. He had been pretty badly mangled up and was in a coma, not responding to anyone or anything. The 'experts' at the hospital said he’d never walk again, use his hands, or live to see his next birthday. I was running assists on him from The Scientology Handbook for several weeks when one day he regained consciousness. Using another assist from the handbook I got him into communication with the environment and then with me. To the total disbelief of the doctors and staff, I continued the assists for another week and both he and I walked out of the hospital together. That was the biggest thrill of my life and it was totally because I used the techniques from The Scientology Handbook." —G.M.

"I spent a few hours and read the entire Scientology Handbook. It gave me a sense of knowingness I’ve never had before. I knew that I was prepared for any situation in life and I’d know what to do. I now perform assists at work and apply the technology from the book. Now I’m considered a miracle worker and someone who knows what she’s doing. All my life I’ve tried to help people, but now with The Scientology Handbook, I can really help them!" —K.J. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

If I could only have one book, this would be it....
Why?Well, for instance the Chapter entitled 'Ethics and The Conditions'.I didn't really understand it, but if you read the Chapter 'The Technology of Study' you find out why you didn't understand it, because you weren't looking up your words in a dictionary to understand what they mean...I know, it sounds obvious, but until someone spells it out, it really isn't obvious.The whole book is like that, it seems to 'have all the answers'.I started reading it as I was writing a novel and my characters (in the novel) were a bit unfocused...I had them all 'read this book' and now whenever 'they' have a problem they use 'The Ethic's Conditions' or they find out who the suppressive person is that is making them fail in life (That's a whole other chapter, The Cause of Supression...think Wicked Witch of The West - again, it seems obvious, but until someone puts a name on it, it isn't).The only problem is that the characters in my book don't have any angst left, if they start whining, another character gets them to 'Write Up Their Overts and Withholds' (Chapter called Integrity and Honesty).I tried using this stuff on my kids and it's really helped (after practicing, using it on my characters).For example, the chapter on 'The Components of Understanding' was an eye-opener for me...oh, you mean you have to actually LISTEN to them...we really get along well now.Anyway, I'm having so much fun using this stuff...I'm not sure my novel will ever be read by anyone, but I've gotten so much out of this, I don't care.It's funny you never hear about things like this on Oprah, it seems like she'd be all over it...if only Dr. Phil would start giving out practical advice like this.

So full of useful info you won't believe it!
Wow where to start on this book? There is so much data in this book you could literally start a career in just about any of it's chapters. This is most basic yet powerful tools Scientology has to offer and using them will change your life.

Whether you want to improve your study skills, your ability to analyze data or help a person with physical injuries, this book will have something for you that will just grab your imagination & you can RUN WITH IT!

You cannot go wrong with this book! Get it and enjoy!

Changed my life in all the right ways
It had everything I had ever been looking for to change my life and turn it around for the better.

Scientology Handbook
This really is a very useful handbook with real answers that work well to help with almost any situation in life, to improve your life or help someone else.Very easy to use with lots of pictures and illustrations.I think the study technology should be used in all schools...actually should be the first course that kids do in school.I love the chapter on management and use it all the time.This book also helped me to get over a major loss.

Solutions to problems in life
I love this book because it is so useful. Each chapter contains methods for handling problems in some aspect of life.

From childrearing to studying more effectively, to increasing the production in a company, you can find very useful information - and processes - that, when applied, can improve your life.

This book, on its own, is an incredible resource. I recommend it to everyone! ... Read more

Product Description
Herein lies the substance of the legendary discoveries of Aesthetics, Beauty and Ugliness, Black and White, Agree and Disagree and, in total, the means by which to rehabilitate a thetanâs inherent ability to create energy â with sufficient output to overpower and explode the facsimiles that have enslaved him. ... Read more

Product Description
How is it possible for Scientology to continue growing and recruiting celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Lisa Marie Presley, Tom Cruise, Kirstie Allie, and John Travolta when the truth about this cult is so widely available via the internet? Supporters of Scientology claim that it is compatible with all world religions. The published findings of numerous government inquiries, the affidavits and court testimony of former high level members, and the expert analysis of Scientology practices, however, paint a much different picture. This book is a must read for anyone considering Scientology as a viable spiritual pathway. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

felt letdown
Was looking for more and better info on known personalities.
Dry read, nothing there that's not already well known and " out there ".

Reviewer Quotes
"A must read for anyone who wants to dig deeper into the mysteries, origin, and potential danger of Scientology." - Ken Lentz, Th.D., author of "God, the Good Ally"

"One hundred percent dead on the money and then some." - Arnie Lerma, former Scientologist and author of [...]

"A concise summary of the evidence." - William Harwood, the Midwest Book Review ... Read more

Product Description
Audio CD. Contains 1 Booklet and 3 Discs. Unabridged. Library Edition. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A must have for the student of Scientology
From the publisher's website:

For thousands of years Man has searched for the true meaning of life. Here are the answers. And with exact Scientology techniques, you'll discover them for yourself. Because Scientology is the knowledge of you.

* Master the very elements of survival and happiness
* Resolve the puzzle of your own existence
* Be, do and have what you want in your life ... Read more

Product Description
Here are the definitions of all the terms relating to auditing and the technology of Dianetics and Scientology. LRH explains the various processes, meter phenomena, incidents on the track, and components of the mind and material universe.

Each definition lists the reference it was taken from to assist in further study. Also contains numerous illustrations to clarify terms and principles. An invaluable tool for anyone on training or studying about life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The best Dictionary on the mind.
This is the best, most comprehensive dictionary on the subject of the mind. You will want to have this if you are studying any of Ron Hubbard's technical references on the mind such as Dianetics or History of Man. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The Cult of Greed -- Exposed by a Former Member
Perhaps, reader, you are one of those who have been bombarded with a TV and billboard campaign promoting the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, by L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics contains information that will bring freedom and self-fulfilment, say the ads. What the ads don't tell you is that Dianetics, a "fringe" therapy that first appeared in book form in 1950, is really a "hook" to pull people into the Church of Scientology, a powerful hydra-headed international organization that extracts money and services from its members through its control of their minds and pocketbooks. Scientology (the collective term for the teachings, techniques and network of church corporations created by the late L. Ron Hubbard) sells "mental processing" that bears little resemblance to the book Dianetics. However, Scientology, for reasons my own book makes clear, uses Dianetics to lure "raw meat" (non-Scientologists) into its thought-control machine.

The words "Dianetics" and "Scientology" are built on Greek and Latin roots and sound "scientific" and innocuous. Dianetics and Scientology are not sciences, and they are anything but innocuous. Deceptive use of the name "Dianetics" is typical of Scientology's operations. The organization has much to hide. Scientology and its other "fronts" such as Dianetics speak of freedom. But what kind of "freedom"? I am one of those who spoke out about Scientology. Agents devised a way to enter my home and photograph my papers. A piano concert I booked to play at Carnegie Recital Hall in New York City was canceled at the last moment by a man identifying himself as "Robert Kaufman." My publisher was destroyed in Great Britain by a massive campaign of theft, forgery and poison pen letters.

Scientology tried to steal my freedom of thought and speech, both when I was a member and after. That has only made me want to speak out all the more. In doing so, I have your freedom in mind also. You are about to enjoy a true science fiction adventure in "another world here on earth." Entertainment, yes. But I also wish to share with you -- perhaps with an intensity you haven't known for a while -- the preciousness, the blessedness, of our right to think and speak as we choose.

Your freedom. My freedom. Our freedom. ... Read more