Scientology presents a glittering public facade, with their high-profile celebrities, polished videos, sophisticated TV ads, and impressive buildings. It is a public image that Jefferson Hawkins helped to craft, in the 36 years he spent working for the Church of Scientology. Yet behind that facade is a hidden world of physical and mental abuse, harassment, sleep deprivation, labor camps, family disconnection, and flagrant human rights violations. Anyone who dares to reveal what really goes on behind Scientology’s dazzling curtain is mercilessly attacked and vilified by the Church. In Counterfeit Dreams, Hawkins traces his Scientology experience from his first eager fascination with the subject in the late 1960’s to his departure, three decades later, discarded, vilified and shunned as a “Suppressive Person.” Here is the detailed story of Scientology’s gradual descent into abuse, fanaticism and violence. It is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced abusive control, who has seen their idealism and dreams turned into mental manipulation, and who has ever had to turn their back on life as they know it and start anew. “Jeff Hawkins has written a compelling and emotional story that demonstrates how intelligent people can be drawn into and controlled by abusive, authoritarian groups. His new book, Counterfeit Dreams, is a must-read not only for those who have been directly involved with Scientology, but also for their family and friends who want to understand it from a 36-year insider at the highest levels. Furthermore, I believe former members of other abusive, totalitarian groups would benefit from reading this valuable book.” Steven Hassan, author of Releasing the Bonds.
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