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
L. Ron Hubbard best-selling science fiction writer, former naval officer, and people's philosopher did not initially intend to found a new religion. But neither did he object when followers organized a church based on his teachings. The resulting movement has attracted millions of adherents from around the globe.Much of Scientology applies common sense solutions to life's perplexities. If a church should be judged according to its good works, then Scientology receives high marks for its addiction treatment, literacy, and civil rights programs. But there is more, including mysticism, mythology, some secrecy, and a healthy dose of what might be termed eccentricity. Some observers wonder how a church that promotes mental and emotional well being, which it does, can itself at times appear to be paranoid or dysfunctional? Dr. Melton explores these questions and the major aspects of the church's hierarchical structure and theology, showing, among other things, that the study of religion is seldom dull. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Finally someone with some credentials looking at Scientology
This review board has some reviews from people who are just filled with hate which is unfortunate.

This book is something I gave to my Professor Father to read, as he was not a Scientologist & had heard some of the bad press out there so he had some concerns. After this he didn't and he understood what I was doing and what I was interested in.

It is written by someone with credentials & hasn't had any personal experience with the church's technology. He can see the church for the facts not the hateful twisted distortions one gets from former disgruntled members, (most of whom have public criminal records).

Some people on these reviews make comments regarding Scientology & money. It has nothing to do with this book, however, I think that anyone who has been in a Christian Church will remember that at the end of a service, the collection plate is passed around.

Plus Pastors very often solicit parishioners for further donations. Just watch the TV any Sunday morning! So don't try & deride Scientology because people donate money to it & somehow infer that that is some sort of crime.

Also if you go to Asia, Buddhist monks are required to go ask for alms, i.e. they sit and beg in the streets. In eastern cultures, the members of that society understand that the monks are mediating to obtain a spiritual enlightenment & thusly help all of mankind. People freely donate there as well.

It is the material world and all religions still need money to survive. There is absolutely a rightness in that as they help people.

Meantime Medical Doctors take money from Pharma reps to prescribe drugs that have often powerful side effects. The news is filled every year with the damage done by people on these medications. All of the school shootings & the people left dead are because the Pharma companies & the doctors who prescribe them favor profits over real help. This is the greatest tragedy of our time.

Obviously some people have done enough bad things with money that when others do something good with it, it drives them mad.

Too Short for any Significant Impact...
If you are looking for a book about Scientology that offers an objective understanding of the origins of the church, how the church is structured, and what the faithful believe, then this book might be a good place to start.Melton's book comes close on all three counts, but due to it's abbreviated length, doesn't quite satisfy the need.

There are all manner of information about Scientology found in traditional publications and on the internet.Unfortunately most of the information is decidely pro or anti church.The bulk of the anti information comes from individuals who have had a negative experience with the church and much of the pro information comes from church or the writings of it's founder L. Ron Hubbard.So unless you wade through the agendas found in either sides publications your unlikely to get a solid understanding of what makes this church and it's membership tick.

The one publication that seems to take an objective look at the church and it's surrounding controversy is this book.Regarding most issues addressed, Melton is careful to provide the opinion of the church's opponents as well as the church's take on the issue.It's as balanced as it can get.

Unfortunately the sheer size of the book prevents it from becoming anything but a rudimentary primer on the very basics of the church.16 of it's 80 paperback size pages are support notes for the author's discussion.And 64 pages is about 300 pages short of a comprehensive study of one aspect of the church let alone it's entire history.

The book takes the reader from the early life of founder L. Ron Hubbard, his writings and the development of Dianetics, through the Dianetics to Scientology evolution, and ends with information about how the church is structured.What it doesn't provide is any kind of understanding about the foundations of the religion, it's dogma or tenets - you will find no mention of Xenu here.

The value of this book is that it's a short, easy to read primer that those interested in exploring Scientology (in a scholarly or spriritual context) will find to be a great, objective place to start.

More entertaining than listening to seagulls screech
I used to be afraid of dwarves.But thanks to L. Ron Hubbard, I am now only afraid of things that come out of my butt.While this fear has grown more intense, I have a strange urge to buy all of Tom Cruise's movies on DVD including "Legend" in order that I might play them backwards to reveal a secret message.The message being L. Ron Hubbard's address, so I will know where to mail my check.Speaking of which, I think BattleField Earth with John Travolta got a bum rap.It was slightly more painful than placing one's testicle in a garlic press and squeezing.So just ask homeschoolmum, L. Ron Hubbard is in fact our savior.On Easter we celebrate his birth and best works of fiction like Dianetics.On Christmas, we spend lots of money on his products and give them to fellow pagans.It's not like any of us would dare give "Blue Lagoon" on DVD to another scientologist.So do you think Brooke Shields turned Tom Cruise down?

Melton's work is flawed
It is very obvious that Melton basically shares materials from Scientology's public relations office.There are factual errors in his work, many ommisions, and a minimizing of major legal actions against Scientology.Melton states that L. Ron Hubbard "never claimed the kind of formal academic credentials which the average scientists or physician possesses..." (pg 58)Wrong!In 1958 Hubbard published "The Problem of Work, Scientology Applied to the Work-a-day World", by "L.Ron Hubbard, C.E, PhD."C.E. is the designation for Chemical Engineer.

Melton glosses over the conviction of Scientologists for infiltrating and and stealing IRS materials by saying "In the end, the actual crimes for which they were convicted were relatively minor."Minor?They were sentences to four to five years in jail.

Melton says nothing about one of Scientology's major losses when, at the conclusion of a trail involving Hubbard, Judge Breckenridge stated "The evidence porrays a man who has been virtually a pathological liar when it comes to his history, background and achievements..."

No mention is made of the major Supreme Court ruling (Hernandez vs. IRS 1989) in which the Supreme Court denied Scientology the right to deducted "fixed donations" for the many courses required for advancement.And no comment is made as to how the IRS could nullify that finding and give Scientology the right to do so.

Nothing said about the 23,000 persons declared to be suppressive persons, people who Hubbard stated "could be tricked, lied to or destroyed."

Finally, look at the footnotes and sources.The vast majority are from Scientology's own material.Only a Scientology would call this material "objective."

Nice unbiased review
I've always respected J. Gordon Melton as a scholarly balanced religious scholar.This quick treatment of The Church of Scientology was excellent.I was able to read the entire book in a couple of hours and it gave me an excellent overview.I'm now going to check out the other books in this great little series. ... 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
For the first time ever, a former high-ranking member of the Church of Scientology is lifting the lid on life inside the world s fastest growing cult. The Complex reveals the true story behind the religion that has ensnared a who s who list of celebrities such as Tom Cruise and John Travolta, and convinced thousands of ordinary people to join up.

Duignan describes how two years ago he staged a dramatic escape from the elite paramilitary group at the core of the Church, the Sea Organisation, and how he narrowly evaded pursuit by Scientologists from the Office of Special Affairs. He looks back on the 22 years he served in the Church s secret army and describes the hours of sleep deprivation, brain-washing and intense auditing or religious counselling he endured, as he was moulded into a soldier of Scientology. He talks about the money-making-machine at the heart of the Church, the Scientology goal to Clear the Planet and Get Ethics In , the training programmes, the Rehabilitation Project Force and the punishments meted out to anyone who transgresses, including children. We follow his journey through the Church and the painful investigation that leads to his eventual realisation that there is something very wrong at Scientology s core.

The beliefs of the Church of Scientology might sound like something from a science fiction book but The Complex reveals that the Church s growing power base is a shocking reality. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (39)

MUST READ!!!
If you know noting about Scientology this is quite the eye opener! I on the other hand had educated myself quite thoroughly on the topic of Scientology by the time I purchased this book. Yet, I feel like I still learned things I wouldn't have through googling, like insider perspectives and understanding the psyche of someone who would be willing to join such a cult.

Reads Like a Novel
After reading the book My Billion Year Contract: Memoir of a Former Scientologist, I decided to write a review for it using `The Complex' as a point of comparison. This motivated me to go back and read `The Complex' a second time. I now feel confident to say that this is an excellent book. It's easy to read and is full of interesting information about Scientology. It's hard to believe that such a cultic organization can operate on such a large scale, in so many countries. How it got its tax-free religion status is beyond comprehension (actually it's not clear why ANY religion should enjoy tax-free status. But that's another story.)

This book reads like a novel and the author does a good job painting a clear picture as to why it becomes so difficult for Scientology members to leave the `church'. It can be difficult for people (like myself) who have never been in Scientology to understand how normal, intelligent people come to believe all the drivel Scientology pushes on its members. The author himself states his surprise, after getting out, hardly believing his own acceptance of some of the things he believed unquestioningly (for example, the silly comment Tom Cruise said about how... "at the scene of an accident, only a scientologist can help..." Of course Tom, of course.) Highly recommended.

Exposes the slimy underbelly of Scientology
This book does a great job describing the day to day life inside Scientology.There are so many people out now telling these stories that we have to start paying attention.Not all of them (or any of them) can be brushed aside as disgruntled apostates.This book reads well, the story is gripping, horrific and sad.I'm glad the author managed to escape.Shame on Amazon for not carrying it.People who sell books should be in the business of free speech.

The Covert World of Scientology
The Complex was published in 2009 in Ireland. This book is probably one of the most recent explosive exposes revolving around the cult of Scientology and the dangers of being a member.

John Duignan had joined Scientology in Germany when he was 22. He was led to get a free personality assessment by an attractive recruiter when he was feeling particularly down and depressed. Mr. Duignan seemed to be having an identity crisis, which seemed to begin with the loss of his parents. He goes into great detail about his feeling of security and belonging once joining Scientology and how he moved up the ranks to their elite Sea Org. It is very apparent, as well as appalling, how those who are lost and are looking for answers get sucked in. You see the way he was basically brainwashed into thinking like a Scientologist, whose goal is to absorb its teachings and never question the validity of anything that is seen, heard, or experienced. He looked at the founder of Scientology, L. Ron Hubbard, as one might revere a God. He became ensconced within the inner walls and learned to live by Scientology creed and nothing else.

What becomes apparent throughout the book is the stripping of individuality the members suffer and the financial ruin they are left with. They are threatened and have to disconnect with persons who are considered "suppressive", many times breaking up families and marriages. They are taught no education, and many have been in Scientology for years and since a very young age, so they have no job experience. Children of Scientologists have their own rules and aren't treated as children, but little soldiers to brainwash.

John Duignan started waking up from his sleepwalking nightmare when Tom Cruise was at a function to receive a special award for his faithfulness and dedication to Scientology. It was then that John realized he was just as dedicated, although not rich like Mr. Cruise, and he was living in truly deplorable conditions. If anything, his dedication was MORE than Cruise because Cruise wasn't living in the trenches. This was the beginning of John's Internet search (which was forbidden) into the movement he had been a part of for so long (over 20 years), and he started seeing the other side of what Scientology really was. His realization was he was living a lie all of this time and planned his escape, though it proved to be a difficult one.

Once again, Scientology had tried to stop The Complex from being published, even using Fake-Boy Tom Cruise, their Celebrity Pet Puppet, to conveniently "visit" Amazon.com employees to treat them to a special screening of his most recent movie. It is indeed curious how the ban on this book coincided with Tommy Boy's movie.

While The Complex is available at present on Amazon in the USA, it is still unavailable in Canada and the United Kingdom. It's amazing to me how Freedom of Speech could be tampered this way when this group is destroying so many lives. Even more curiously, though John Duignan appeared to be showing up in the press as late as March of 2009, I could not find his book on his publisher's site, Merlin Publishing - either searching by author or book title.

© Diane Trautweiler. 9/7/09.

Scientology is a Scam and Fraud
I was a member of the church for 23+ years, sadly.What this book talks about is fact.Only devout Scns will speak against it...and that is what is so sad.They are not given the chance to see any kind of criticism whatsoever...I wasn't.If I did, then I would have questions and be sent to "Ethics" where more brainwashing would occur.Scn is brainwashing and mind control.I got very little gain on what I was trying to "handle"...and lots of money spent.What is extremely sad is those "on staff" are such good people who've wasted their lives on a fraudulent man and pseudo-religion.There were some basic things that did me some good...and that's because Hubbard stole them from somebody else.He is a liar and con.Do not think otherwise.A Piece of Blue Sky: Scientology, Dianetics and L. Ron Hubbard Exposed ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

The truth of scientology's fraud revealed!
The truth about the religion founded by a sci-fi writer...the man who once said if you want become rich, START YOUR OWN RELIGION! I only wish that the church of scientology's believers would open their minds, disobey theirchurch, and read this book!

An accurate documentary of the Church of Scientology
Stewart Lamont visited the Church of Scientology's headquarters at Saint Hill England, Clearwater FL, and other locations to come up with this accurate portrayal of the Church of Scientology's practices of fraud, abuse, and leadership by a drug abusing lunatic.A must read for anyone wanting to know the truth about the Church of Scientology. ... Read more

Product Description
Is there such a thing as "too far" when it comes to searching for the ultimate answers to life? Never.

But an important discovery has been made which you should know about.

Who are you? Where do you come from? Where are you going?

Did you ever wonder if the answers were sitting right under your nose?

So here’s something different.

No mumbo jumbo. No initiation. No human sacrifices. Just the facts.

And they pack more punch than anything you ever studied on the subject of the mind, spirit and life.

Real answers work. They lead somewhere. You can use them. That’s Scientology.

Scientology is used by people of all walks, races and faiths. It can restore honesty and trust, create happiness, raise I.Q. and improve personality.

If you want a better life and have been looking for a down-to-earth, practical way to make it happen, then read this book. With over 800 pages and 500 illustrations, this book will take you through an extensive overview of what Scientology has to offer and explain why it has become the fastest growing religion in the world.

Book Features:

Large-format color HardcoverOver 800 pages and 500 illustrations

Complete catechism Accompanying course available Scientology Results Speak for Themselves:

"I have been involved in the Scientology religion for 25 years and it has helped me tremendously in understanding my own true nature and thereby improving my life.

"What I learned in Scientology has helped me in every area of living. I have had a wonderful 22-year relationship with my husband and we work as a team. I have two great kids of whom I am very proud. They are happy, responsible and able to grow up drug-free as a result of their own moral code. They respect others and communicate well. All of these things I have in my life as a result of Scientology. It gave me the tools, and then I applied them to my life to change conditions.

"Now when I meet new people each day, I see how rough life can be for them and how it so adversely affects them. I know I have a spiritual technology that can truly help them, and I do help them. Scientology has given me the viewpoint that it is my responsibility to do so." - D.G.

"Before I discovered the technology of L. Ron Hubbard, I had been married three times. With all my marriages ending in divorce, I was desperate to find out what it would take to make one work.

"In Scientology, I learned what was behind my failures and how I had erred in choosing a mate. I learned about the basic principles of life and discovered I was able to repair the damage I had done. Soon afterwards I met and married a wonderful man. We recently celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary and together are very involved in the lives of our 10 grandchildren!

"Had it not been for achieving a whole new level of spiritual awareness through Scientology, I am certain I would have either continued my hopeless pattern of marriage and divorce or chosen to live alone and be deprived of the companionship and love of a very special man. Instead, I have a very fulfilling marriage and have been able to build lasting family relationships. This is truly wonderful." — D.C. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

A Lot of Information
There is so much information here about Scientology, I found it almost overwhelming.Then I realized as I was trying to read the book cover-to-cover that it was really a COMPLETE reference to the subject and a COMPLETE overview as well.

The book answers probably everything you could think to ask about Scientology, but it's quite different than other books written by the Founder of Scientology, L Ron Hubbard.An example is "Dianetics, the Modern Science of Mental Health".This book is the first public release of the science and is very specific - it's about the mind and how it works and how to fix it.

On the other hand,"What Is Scientology" is a compendium of information about the religion from its history to all its various sections and brief overviews of common questions people probably have.It's a good place to start if you are looking for these kinds of answers, but if you are interested in a specific aspect of the religion itself, read 'Dianetics', mentioned above, or "Scientology, A New Slant on Life", or "Problems of Work".These were the books that I was really interested in and found informative about the actual science.

So, buy this if you would like to know more about the Scientology religion, but if you are interested in the specific science, read the others I mentioned.

A Very Useful Tool
This book is very useful for a person who has questions about Scientology.Almost any question a person could have about the subject is answered in this book.

If you are interested in the subject and want to know what it is, this is the book to read.It does not need to be read cover to cover (although I wanted to do that).It is a terrific reference book, with an extensive index, that will help you rapidly find the answers to your questions.

Encyclopedic Explanations
This book is an encyclopedia of sorts. It explains why Scientology is a religion, why some oppose it and why most support it.

The workability of the drug treatment programs run through Narconon, the Criminon courses that inmates take (I have seen their successes, they would mail them to me and I would see that they were doing great with the material); the literacy programs and so on.

It's really too bad that the general public do not know what Scientology is. There are some who let South Park or Time Magazine teach them what Scientology is. The intelligent person will not base his or her opinions on a cartoon or a second-rate news rag. They'll find out for themselves.

The Dianetics and Scientology websites have recently been cleaned up and have a lot of video content. Do check it out.

Auditing is a counselling technique that is not based on hypnosis or other psychotherapy. It's very effective.

When you know something works you use it and you apply it.

Here's a great intro video sold on Amazon:

This Is Scientology: An Overview of the World's Fastest Growing Religion

Decide for Yourself about Scientology!
"What is Scientology" is the book that will let YOU decide what it's all about.That's what I did many years ago and it has helped me become a more successful, prosperous and happy person! I know full well about all the recent publicity surrounding this philosophy but it is about making this world a better place to live and as you know, we could use that at this particular time in history.Enjoy satisfying your own curiosity, read this book and pass it along.You won't be sorry.

A wonderful, easy book to read and learn from.
I, myself am Jewish and my Husband is Christian. We both read this book and found it very interesting. Just by reading it, we both were able to analyze our lives and make changes. It is a great handbook to have when one has a dilema or would like a little push. I love the question and answer section. We are not the type of people that will judge a religion by what others say. We like to look into it, learn about it and research. So far, we have both learned that this is not a cult but a way of positive living. It's just like going to alcoholic anonymous or a therapist. People go for help, We both believe that there is nothing wrong with that. Who are we to judge? After 22 years of marriage, this is the first time we both agree with a philosophy. We like the way Scientology works things. Yes, I admit, none of us out there like to let go of our money. I know I, myself pay a membership fee to my Temple. My husband donates 10% of his paycheck to his church. And I ask myself why? Why do we need to pay to worship God? I never understood that. I did find out that you pay to take self improvement classes in Scientology. It makes sense. One has to pay for the books only. Not for the help you get from the people that are there. Doesn't this make more sense? It does tome. Whatever the case, everyone lives life the way they choose to live. I'll always be a Jew and my husband will always be a Christian. We don't judge. We don't live life based on what others say or do. We do for ourselves. If I had to do it again, I would buy the book again. We are now reading Dianetics! God bless you all. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Serious Enlightenment
This review was fascinating! Nothing less. Most never knew L. Ron Hubbard was a two-bit criminal and fabricated many aspects of his life.How could ANYONE follow someone with a background like this? After reading Val Waldeck's information on this cult (Scientology: What do they believe?, and I assure you, it's a cult, I was just completely amazed. Some have written reviews that have been harsh and it's apparant and obvious that they are current members of the very organization she's exposed! Even the German government (who's fairly liberal) has tried to rid thier country of this mind-altering, brain-washing organization. It's a criminal cult with a criminally found leader and foundation. The guy even wrote bad checks and fabricated his 'military' service. Not the kind of person you'd want 'enlightenment' from. I HIGHLY recommend any of Val Waldeck writings, although I have no affiliation with the organization or such, it was an honest and penetrating to the bone writing and had me wanting more!!

If you're Christian and worried about becoming a Scientologist then read this...
...otherwise it's a complete waste of time and money (and yes, three dollars is far more than what this PDF is worth).Val Waldeck accomplishes nothing in this "publication" other than to state very clearly that Jesus Christ is the only one you should believe in.Make no mistake, the foreword contains the following: "This ebook was written with the earnest desire that it will assist Christians to obey the instruction of 1 John 4:1".

As a non-Scientologist curious what all this "Church of Scientology" talk is about I was grossly disappointed with this pamphlet.I use the term pamphlet as this text actually contains only 12 pages (not 40 - and in large font print no less!) dealing with the background/history/rumors of The Church of Scientology and L. Ron Hubbard.The remainder is pro-Christianity rhetoric with heavy biblical referencing and two pages with some vague bullet point style tidbits about what cults are and do.Save yourself as you will learn nothing here about the Church of Scientology that you wouldn't already know from word-of-mouth alone.

Informative

Very well written and researched and most useful to anyone wanting to know all about what various cults believe.

Val Waldeck's Books are Inspirational
I have read all of Val Waldeck's book and have to say that I find them so Inspirational & Spiritual.She is an amazing teacher and has special insight into everything that she writes.
I look forward to more of her wonderful books being published.

Val Mitchell
Durban, South Africa ... Read more

Product Description
2,826 pages of FBI files covering L. Ron Hubbard and the Church of Scientology archived on CD-ROM.

Files date from 1943 to 1993. Among the material in the files:

A memo of a 1951 FBI interview with L. Ron Hubbard, in which he expresses concern that communists were undermining his organization, Hubbard Dianetic Research Foundation, Inc. Memos concerning a 1963 raid of church offices by United States Marshals and the USDA to seize Church of Scientology "E-meters." Attempts by the Church of Scientology to established as part of the files the FBI maintains on it, it's contention that much of the information in the files are falsehoods about L. Ron Hubbard and the Church of Scientology. Information regarding a 1975 civil action brought by the Church of Scientology, claiming that the FBI had wiretapped its phones. Allegations made by the Church that the FBI broke into its offices in Champagne, Illinois in 1976. Documents dealing with a 1977 search of Church of Scientology properties in Washington D.C. and Los Angeles conducted by hundreds of FBI agents. An FBI investigation into allegations that Church of Scientology members and former church members broke into IRS offices. FBI response to allegations of misconduct by its agents during the 1977 raids. An FBI memo stating concern of that Church of Scientology members might be trying to join the FBI and that for the time being, "no appointments will be extended to any applicant identified as being a member of the Church of Scientology." Correspondences between the FBI and members of Congress concerning the raid and possible civil rights violations. Letters from the FBI and the Department of Justice defending their raid and investigation of the Church of Scientoogy. Documents pertaining to the 1978 indictment of 12 members of the Church of Scientology, including L.Ron Hubbard's wife Mary Sue, on charges of conspiracy, theft of government property, aiding and abetting, and interception of oral communications. ... 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
There’s never been a way for man to right the wrongs committed, or to know with certainty which choices will ensure a brilliant and successful future.

But now there is.

With this book you can learn the technology of ethics and use it to keep your feet firmly on the road to freedom.

The material in this book is not something someone does for you, it’s a personal matter. Learn it well, use it to keep your own counsel and be true to your own goals.

The world can become pretty savage but with a full understanding of Scientology ethics and justice you will know exactly how to bring order to your life and the lives of your fellows. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

The Conditions
This is A great ethics book, not just for scientologist but for everyone. It explains justice and ethics and why they are different. It also talks about "SP" or suppresive persons, and how they are detrimental to someones sanity and ambitions.

But what I Found most helpful, were the conditions. LRH explains that at any time someone who is out-ethics (doing unethical things) is in A certain condition, and they can redeem themselves from these conditions, and get ethics back in, by following a certain formula for each condition.

Very helpful!
This book has been a useful tool for me in my business. It shows how to track statistics, and how to evaluate those statistics.

Once the statistics have been examined, then specific tools are given to increase them over time.

My business has increased by 8 times since implementing these tools! I am no longer in a mystery about how to increase business, when to promote, when to cut back... the formulas given are clear, and easy to implement, AND THEY WORK!

I am a VERY satisfied customer!

Difference between ethics and morals
This book clarifies the difference between morals and ethics -- what we do because we think doing them makes us "good" and those things we do because they lead to a better existence for ourselves and our fellows.

We don't live in a vacuum, despite what the materialists might think. This book is how to live well ourselves - without hurting those around us.

This is a revolutionary approach to the subject. I wish more business leaders would become familiar with these concepts! It would make a better world for all...

Very interesting book
L Ron Hubbard is possibly the most controversial man of the 21st century.
I read this book while researching into supernatual phenonema like near-death-experiences, psychics, out of body experiences, as Hubbard made several claims in this area.
While the book doesn't talk about that, or Scientology techniques, it is an interesting read. You won't find philosophical arguments here - the emphasis is on workability. Hubbard's philosophy (which is a version of utilitarianism based on survival) is intuitively a better ethical philopsophy than anything I studied at Oxford.
I also gained an understanding of why Scientology charges money for its services, and found Hubbard's arguments about why people attack Scientology interesting (though I'm not in a position to judge them).
The book is also a good management book - on par at least with the One Minute Manager.
Hubbard was an intelligent and interesting character. If he was a charlatan then was certainly a complete genius who continues to deceive today.
On the other hand his principles seem sound and aimed at improving the human condition.

People that don't bother to look for the truth
I Have read through this book countless times and have found it to be an essential tool for living in this society. The book is absolutely invaluble, and anyone who thinks otherwise is not nuts, they simply haven't looked at the bigger picture. Most people that slam Scientology aren't wrong from thier point of view, but they fail to look at everything there is to look at, which consequently makes them look rather silly and disappoints me in that our society commonly slams what they do not understand. Stop fearing Scientology, it will not bite you !! It may even help you, you decide... ... Read more

Product Description
You can live life and learn of life, but life will neverbe truly comprehensible to you, no matter how much you live, unlessyou know the basics of life itself contained in Scientology 8-8008.

These basics are nothing less than the foundation upon which rest allyour hopes and dreams and any beauty you will ever see or feel. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Life changing book
I loved this book.To be able to understand how the physical universe works and how I relate to it, makes me more able.Simple as that.It has made me a much more causitive person, and made my life much easier and happier.

Operating Manual for an Immortal Spiritual Being
What are the qualities and attributes and capabilities of the Human Spirit? What exactly is the Physical Universe? You were immensely powerful once, so what happened? How can you rise to greater heights of awareness and ability and once again become the YOU that you actually are? This book by L. Ron Hubbard embraces the essence of Scientology. You need this information.

Scientology 8-8008 was originally written by Hubbard in London in October 1952 as the textbook for an upcoming series of lectures which he delivered to students in Philadelphia in December of that year.

The title of this book, "Scientology 8-8008" is actually a formulaic/symbolic statement of the Goal of Scientology. Translated it means: "The attainment of Infinity by reducing the apparent infinity of the Physical Universe to "0" and then taking the apparent "0" value of one's own universe and increasing it to Infinity". (An "8" laid on its side is the symbol for infinity).

Scientology 8-8008 is the best book you will ever read on Spirituality and your Native Abilities. It really does contain the Truth that will set you Free.

a very good book
that is one of the best book a man can get . the knowledge in this book can save you from sad and very bad life. here you can find the knoledge you need for a better future for yourself. ... Read more

Product Description
Searching for the ultimate answers to life?

Welcome to the finish line.

Is it possible to approach the vast subject of the mind, the spirit and life and arrive at basic principles which not only explain the deepest mysteries, but provide an exact measurable way to free yourself from them?

The answer is yes!

These basic principles can not only be known, they can be used to improve all aspects of your life.

And you will find them in this book. They are simple, and yet so powerful that just by reading and applying them you will transform your life and the lives of those around you.

For what is written in this book is truth. And you will recognize it like a long lost friend.

Find out about Scientology’s greatest discovery-the source of life itself.

Discover how to use the three conditions of existence to determine your success in all aspects of life.

If you disagree with how things are, if you want a better life, then this book will take you on a journey where there is no limit to what you can accomplish, no end to what you can achieve.

Your search is over, but the adventure has just begun. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (42)

Gift for a friend
I got the book very quickly.It was a gift so I was glad to receive it in fairly good shape. Thanks for getting it to me so quickly.

Good book, no matter your philosophy/religion
I've read this book a few years ago and I'm about to read it for the second time. I'm not a scientologist nor do I plan to become one. I've never read any other scientology book or pamphlet.

As far as philosopy is concerned, this book didn't reveal anything especially new or astounding to me.

The value of it is in the manner in which it teaches one to control their thoughts instead of allowing their thoughts to control them. If you have a phobia, problems with procrastination, a goal you wish to reach, a tendency to give yourself negative feedback, or if you just wish to change for other reasons, this book effectively teaches you to (to put it as simply as possibly) have your CONSCIOUS mind control your subconscious mind. For too many people, the opposite is true. Do you want to start your own business, but have a nagging voice tell you that you've never been successful and shouldn't expect to be now? Do you consciously say that you will do something important today, and your subconscious tells you it can wait? Why are you allowing your subconscious mind to stop you from what you consciously decided you want to do? This book really helps you in addressing this problem.

Again, I'm not a scientologist and don't intend to become one. Wisdom doesn't come in the vehicle of only one religion, one language, one culture, one philosophy. Don't allow your mistrust of the religions or cultures of others impede your acceptance of wisdom.

Exceptional Information

I read this book years ago, during a time when I needed advice and some sort of tool I could use to make life better for me and my family.This one really did exactly what it promised. The book was simple and easy to understand.The content was something I felt I already knew and the author just reminded me! I have read this book a couple more times the past 20 years and still find things in it that make so much sense - this is one worth keeping for reference, and is great as a gift too.

Gives you a new way to look at things
I read this book many years ago, and it definitely changed the way I looked at things in life.This book is a good introduction to Scientology.

Body Mind & Spirit
This is excellent reading for anyone who is interested in understanding better how the human mind works. The connection between Body, Mind and Spirit. Who are we? How can we be happier? Why do we behave the way in which we do? These life perplexing questions are answered here. After you read this book you may realize that you are not insane after all. You may even be able to change the way in which you think about life. Or the way in which you think about things all together, which may help you to bring about positive changes in your life. ... Read more

Product Description
High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Operation Clambake, also referred to by its Web address, Xenu.net, is a Web site and Norway-based non-profit organization, launched in 1996, that publishes mostly critical information about the Church of Scientology. It is owned and maintained by Andreas Heldal-Lund, who has stated that he supports the rights of all people to practice Scientology or any religion. Operation Clambake has referred to the Church of Scientology as: "a vicious and dangerous cult that masquerades as a religion". The Web site includes texts of petitions, news articles, exposés, and primary source documents. The site has been ranked as high as the second spot in Google searches for the term "Scientology". ... Read more