The Fair Game policy was a practice employed by the Church of Scientology in the past, and it was outlined by L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, in various writings. The policy, as originally formulated, allowed for aggressive and often hostile actions against individuals or groups perceived as enemies of the Church. The term "Fair Game" indicated that these individuals or groups were considered legitimate targets for various tactics without restraint.
Key points related to the Fair Game policy include:
Origins:
The Fair Game policy was introduced by L. Ron Hubbard in the early days of Scientology, as documented in internal church writings. The policy was intended to deal with what Hubbard considered as threats or opposition to the Church.
Targets:
Those identified as "Fair Game" were frequently individuals or collectives regarded as adversaries or detractors of Scientology. This encompassed ex-members, reporters, public servants, or anyone deemed to pose a risk to the Church's interests.
Practices:
Fair Game practices encompassed a wide array of strategies designed to undermine, intimidate, or legally confront individuals who were perceived as adversaries of the Church. These strategies encompassed various tactics such as engaging in legal battles, launching public defamation campaigns, and seeking to undermine the personal and professional spheres of the targeted individuals.
Official Cancellation:
In 1968, following widespread public criticism and legal challenges, Hubbard issued an official cancellation of the Fair Game policy. He stated that the policy was no longer valid and that the Church would not use the term "Fair Game" against anyone.
Continued Criticism:
Despite the official cancellation, the Fair Game policy has been a source of ongoing criticism and controversy. Critics of Scientology argue that, even after the cancellation, some practices associated with Fair Game have continued, leading to legal battles and public scrutiny.
Criticism and Controversy:
The notion of Suppressive Persons and the methods employed to deal with them have sparked debate and disapproval, both within and outside the Church of Scientology. Detractors claim that designating individuals as Suppressive Persons and implementing the disconnection policy can create division and cause harm.
The Church of Scientology firmly asserts that the policy of Fair Game is no longer practiced and openly renounces any actions carried out under its name. Nevertheless, individuals who criticize or have left the Church continue to express ongoing apprehensions regarding the implementation of forceful strategies against those who are seen as adversaries or critics of the Church.
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