L. Ron Hubbard

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L. Ron Hubbard (Lafayette Ronald Hubbard, March 13, 1911 – January 24, 1986) was an American author and the founder of the Church of Scientology. Before establishing Scientology in 1952, Hubbard was a prolific writer in the science fiction and fantasy genres. His work in Dianetics, a system of psychotherapy he developed in the late 1940s, laid the groundwork for the religious movement that would become Scientology.

Early Life

L. Ron Hubbard was born in Tilden, Nebraska, in 1911. His early life was characterized by his prolific reading and writing, and he traveled extensively with his family. Hubbard claimed to have visited Asia and the South Pacific in his youth, experiences he later said influenced his philosophies. However, some of these claims have been disputed by critics and researchers.

Career

Writing Career

Before founding Scientology, Hubbard established himself as a writer in the 1930s and 1940s, contributing to various pulp fiction magazines. His early work included science fiction, fantasy, and adventure stories. Despite the commercial nature of his writings, some of his science fiction works, such as Final Blackout and Fear, are still regarded with respect in the genre.

Dianetics

In 1950, Hubbard published Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health, introducing the concept of Dianetics. Dianetics proposed a methodology for the eradication of irrational fears, unwanted emotions, and psychosomatic illnesses through a process called "auditing." Despite initial interest, the scientific community largely rejected Dianetics due to its lack of empirical evidence and methodological flaws.

Scientology

Building on the foundations of Dianetics, Hubbard transitioned to the creation of Scientology, a religious movement that encompasses a complex system of beliefs and practices aimed at spiritual rehabilitation. Scientology teaches that humans are immortal beings who have forgotten their true nature, and through auditing and other practices, individuals can reclaim their spiritual identity.

Controversies

Hubbard's life and the Church of Scientology have been surrounded by controversies, including legal battles, accusations of fraud, and criticisms of the church's practices and beliefs. Hubbard himself was accused of fabricating much of his personal history and achievements. In the later years of his life, Hubbard lived in seclusion, and his death in 1986 was followed by disputes over his estate and the future leadership of the Church of Scientology.

Legacy

Despite the controversies, Hubbard's influence through Scientology continues to be significant, with the church claiming millions of members worldwide. His writings on Scientology remain central texts for the religion, and his science fiction and fantasy works continue to be read and appreciated by fans of the genres.

See Also

• Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health
• Church of Scientology
• Science fiction and fantasy literature

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