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Can Scientology really give people superhuman abilities, as some of its members claim?

Benita Unitt

Possible answer:

As a regular user of social media, I have come across many stories and rumors about the controversial religion called Scientology. Some people praise it as a life-changing experience that has empowered them with unique talents and insights, while others criticize it as a dangerous cult that brainwashes and exploits its followers for money and power. Therefore, the question of whether Scientology can really give people superhuman abilities as some of its members claim is not easy to answer in a simple way. However, I will try to explore some of the evidence, arguments, and counterarguments that may shed light on this topic.

First of all, it is essential to clarify what is meant by "superhuman abilities," as the term can be both vague and misleading. Some of the most commonly cited skills that Scientology allegedly teaches and enhances are telepathy, telekinesis, past-life recall, heightened awareness, and supernatural intuition. These abilities are often associated with the concept of "Operating Thetan" or OT, which refers to a state of spiritual enlightenment and power that advanced Scientologists aim to achieve by passing through higher levels of auditing and training.

However, the validity and nature of these abilities remain hotly disputed among scientists, skeptics, and even some former members of Scientology. While some enthusiasts claim to have witnessed or experienced extraordinary phenomena that cannot be explained by science, others argue that these phenomena are either natural or staged illusions. Skeptics point out that there is no empirical evidence to support the claims of Scientology and that many of its practices and beliefs contradict or ignore established scientific facts and principles.

For example, the so-called E-meter, a device used in Scientology to measure the electrical resistance of a person's body, has been criticized as a pseudoscientific gadget that has no medical or diagnostic value. The notion of past lives and thetan implants have been rejected as unfounded and unsupported by historical and anthropological research. The methods of auditing and sec-checking, which involve interrogating and assessing a person's thoughts and feelings, have been criticized as invasive and abusive.

Moreover, there have been many reports of harm and abuse inflicted by Scientology on its members, including forced disconnections from families and friends, psychological manipulation, bullying, harassment, and even physical violence. Many former members have testified to the damaging effects of Scientology on their mental and emotional health, relationships, and careers. Therefore, the question of whether Scientology can give people superhuman abilities must be balanced against the question of whether Scientology is a legitimate religion or a harmful cult.

In conclusion, I would say that the claim that Scientology can give people superhuman abilities is highly controversial and lacks solid evidence. While some people may believe that they have gained extraordinary skills and insights through Scientology, the validity and nature of these claims remain unverified and open to scrutiny. Moreover, even if Scientology were to offer some benefits or insights to its members, these benefits would have to be balanced against the potential harms and risks of joining a controversial and secretive organization that has been criticized and condemned by many people and institutions around the world. Therefore, as a cautious and critical user of social media, I would recommend that people research and evaluate the claims and controversies of Scientology from a variety of sources before making any decisions or judgments about it.