Going Clear

The documentary "Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief" and its source material, Lawrence Wright's comprehensive book, offer a shocking glimpse into one of the most controversial religious organizations in modern history. Both works meticulously dissect the Church of Scientology's origins, its Hollywood connections, and the troubling allegations that have followed it for decades.

The origins of Scientology trace back to Lafayette Ronald Hubbard (L. Ron Hubbard), a prolific science fiction writer who transformed his self-help system, Dianetics, into a full-fledged religion. Wright's book delves deeply into Hubbard's background, revealing contradictions between his claimed military heroism and actual service record. This context proves crucial for understanding how a science fiction writer created a belief system where humans are vessels for alien spirits called "Thetans," trapped on Earth after an intergalactic catastrophe millions of years ago.

The concept of "going clear" refers to the process by which Scientologists attempt to rid themselves of negative influences from past lives through "auditing" sessions. During these sessions, individuals are connected to an "E-meter" (essentially a rudimentary lie detector) while answering deeply personal questions. The organization claims this process helps members overcome trauma and unlock superhuman abilities. However, both the book and documentary suggest these sessions primarily serve to collect compromising information that can later be used against members who attempt to leave.

Scientology's infiltration of Hollywood represents one of its most successful strategies. The organization deliberately targeted celebrities through its "Celebrity Centre" in Los Angeles, understanding that star power would provide legitimacy and protection. Tom Cruise and John Travolta emerge as the most prominent Scientologist celebrities, with the documentary making explosive claims about how the church manipulated Cruise's relationships, including allegedly orchestrating his breakup with Nicole Kidman and later "auditioning" potential partners for him without their knowledge.

Perhaps most disturbing are the accounts of physical abuse, intimidation, and exploitation within the organization, particularly after David Miscavige assumed leadership following Hubbard's death. Former high-ranking members describe a culture of fear and isolation in the "Sea Org," Scientology's elite religious order, where members sign billion-year contracts and allegedly face harsh punishment for perceived infractions. The documentary highlights the "Rehabilitation Project Force," described as a prison-like re-education program for members who question authority.

Both works examine Scientology's aggressive legal tactics against critics and former members, including harassment campaigns labeled as "Fair Game." The church has consistently denied all allegations of abuse and misconduct, dismissing former members as disgruntled liars. However, the sheer number of consistent testimonies from high-ranking former officials lends credibility to these troubling accounts.

For those interested in this subject, both the book and documentary offer valuable insights, though Wright's book provides significantly more detail and context. The documentary serves as an excellent introduction, while the book delivers a more comprehensive understanding of this fascinating and disturbing organization that continues to wield considerable influence despite ongoing controversies and legal challenges.