A Billion Years - Mike Rinder
Audiobook uploaded to Audible 2022. Narrated by the author.
In reviewing this book, I find myself strangely glad that I have such a small readership for my blog. Why? Because in seeing how Scientology attacks those who speak up against them, it would be more intimidating to publish this review if I was well-known! I mean, I still would... but I'm not sure I'd enjoy being picketed and torn apart in the media for it.
I kinda doubt they'll bother for me presently.
This was a free book on Audible. It tells the life story of the author, Mike Rinder, who grew up in Scientology, rising to various prominent positions, before eventually leaving the organisation and turning whistleblower. When he joined it was still the early days of Scientology, and many of the 'higher-level' beliefs of Scientology (such as the existence of the evil alien Xenu) were either not-yet-developed or were closely guarded secrets, only revealed to members once they had already been in the organisation for some time (and less likely to want to disprove them). Rinder traces the development of Scientology from the inside, highlighting the methods that those in the higher levels used to keep control over those beneath them, and the 'fair game' attack methods that the organisation would turn against any opponents - some of which were incredibly successful.
As the book continued, it was surprising to see how long it took Rinder to leave Scientology, particularly as he began to be verbally - and even physically - abused by those in the senior leadership. However, when he explains just how deeply ingrained the beliefs of Scientology were to him, it makes more sense - the title A Billion Years even speaks into this, as he signed a 'billion year contract' when he joined the Sea Org. Imagine attempting to break that!
I believe the author. He speaks openly, with names and dates attached, and seems to have nothing to gain by doing so. In fact, he has lost a lot by turning against Scientology. If even only a small portion of this book was true (and I'm sure Scientology itself would seek to discredit it) then the organisation is a far more controlling and dangerous cult than I had previously realised.
The huge challenge in reading this book is realising how easily belief can be manipulated, especially when those in authority condemn doubts as signs of heresy or failure in those who feel them. As a Christian, I believe my faith is able to be challenged and tested, and am glad that I am not required to 'blindly believe' any particular facets of my faith. I can also see how some Christians could fall into that trap, and am challenged by this book to challenge those sort of stances within myself if they begin to arise.
Although Rinder is not a natural narrator, the fact that this is his story adds weight to his narration, particularly in the times when his actions cost him personally.
Thought-provoking.
Completed 9 March 2024.
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