The Freezone/Independent Scientology

Though the Freezone (shortened to FZ) has been around for decades, most people who were raised in Scientology have never heard of it. This page provides a brief introduction to the Freezone/Independent Scientology/Etc.

What is the Freezone?

Wikipedia does a fabulous job summarizing the Freezone:

“The Free Zone (or Independent Scientologists or Scientology Freezone) comprises a variety of groups and individuals who practice Scientology-like beliefs and techniques independently of the Church of Scientology. Such practitioners range from those who closely adhere to the original teachings of Scientology’s founder L. Ron Hubbard, to those who have so far adapted their practices to be almost unrecognizable as Scientology. The term Free Zone was originally only used by a single organization, but the term is now commonly applied to all non-CoS Scientologists, although many dispute the application of the term to themselves. However, the group whose name became adopted as a generic term for independent Scientology was not the first independent Scientologist group; the California Association of Dianetic Auditors, the oldest breakaway group still in existence, claims a founding date of December 1950, predating the Church of Scientology itself.

“A November 2004 press release published by the International Freezone Association cited what it says was a command written by L. Ron Hubbard himself: “… before you go, whisper this to your sons and their sons: ‘THE WORK WAS FREE. KEEP IT SO.'” (capitals as in press release).

“Skeptic Magazine described the Free Zone as: ‘..a group founded by ex-Scientologists to promote L. Ron Hubbard’s ideas independent of the Church of Scientology.” A Miami Herald article wrote that ex-Scientologists joined the Free Zone because they felt that Church of Scientology leadership had: “..strayed from Hubbard’s original teachings.'”

Why do People Join the Freezone?

Each Freezoner has his own reasons for leaving the umbrella organization of the CoS and joining the Freezone. The reasons are numerous as the people who participate. The most commonly cited reasons are:

    • The belief that true Scientology doctrine was and is corrupted by David Miscavige and RTC after Ron’s death.
    • The belief that Scientology as it stands today is too focused on money, and charges too much for services.
    • The belief that enlightenment should be free.
    • The belief that during Hubbard’s life, Scientology was run in the spirit of experimentation and growth, whereas now the attitude of the Scientology community has changed into one of unquestioning obedience.
    • The belief that Scientology is not perfect, and one should be free to tailor Hubbard’s teaching to his or her individual needs.

How does the official Church of Scientology feel about the Freezone?

The CoS has declared all members of the Freezone suppressive people. CoS refers to anyone who uses Hubbard’s teachings outside of the church as a “squirrel”. “Squirreling” is considered one of the worst crimes in Scientology.

Freezoners and critics believe this is because the Freezone takes money away from the CoS by offering its services at a lower cost, or for free. Scientology management says that Freezoners are not applying “standard LRH technology”, and have perverted the truth of Hubbard’s teachings.

Find out for yourself with these Freezone links: