Sept. 9, 2026

Jon Atack on Scientology, Authoritarianism, and the Psychology of Belief

Jon Atack on Scientology, Authoritarianism, and the Psychology of Belief
Jon Atack on Scientology, Authoritarianism, and the Psychology of Belief
IndoctriNation
Jon Atack on Scientology, Authoritarianism, and the Psychology of Belief

In this episode, Rachel speaks with Jon Atack about Scientology, authoritarianism, and the ways belief systems can shape behavior. Jon reflects on his experience with Scientology, the harassment he encountered after speaking out, and the contradictions he found within its teachings. Rachel and Jon examine moral injury, magical thinking, othering, certainty, and the difficulty of psychologically separating from a controlling group. They also discuss developing a sense of self, compassion, and humility, the role of humor in recovery, and Jon’s return to painting, writing, music, and other interests outside his work on cults.

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