What is interesting is that he so open reproduced his own state of mind. Most con men, such as televangelist types, tend to strive to mimic more altruistic beliefs, to feign sympathy and compassion and the like. For the most part LRH did nothing of the kind, he simply rebranded his own attitudes in more positive ways. Then again, perhaps that was the appeal for some, being able to see relatively base, narcissistic attitudes as the pinnacle of human existence. Kind of like the extreme social Darwinists who argued that brutality and oppression were the natural and desirable state of existence.

The reason we are discussing him now is that an organisation grew around him based on a set of rules and practices, and run according to an informal culture, which reproduced both Hubbard’s unhealthy state of mind and itself.

There were many con-men practising at the same time as Hubbard, but only he left behind an organisation in his own image, that still ‘behaves’ broadly as he would have done.

I agree. I think life should be like that – continually exploring and being exposed to ideas that are not necessarily my own.

I also know that certain groups use college campuses to dupe, infiltrate and harm students. A number of really nasty groups come to mind.

Baby C loves to investigate, explore and debate (part of her major/minor). I’m just hoping she also learns the life lesson of when to stand and when to run.

I’m telling on you to the Tufty Club!

I am still holding a Shriners and an American Kennel Club, so be careful.

Hmm… does a Ladies Circle and an Inner Wheel beat that?

I see your Masons and raise you a Knights of Columbus.

It is interesting that at least in a few instances he basically survived as a con man (his boat buying scheme, for example), as much of his thinking seems to match quite well the instrumental view of others con men (and sociopaths) have. He seemed to have the same lack of empathy, and view of others as a means to an end, that you find in those who succeed in surviving by defrauding others. Sadly, he took that mindset and convinced a number of people it was not an aberration, but an ideal.

So true! *tips hat*

The Freewinds docked at Curacao this morning.