Alex Peck
asked
Lawrence Wright:
Hi Lawrence, Going Clear is one of my favorite reads ever, as you unmask an organization that prides itself on secrecy and intimidation. Two questions: 1. Have been subjected to the virulent harassment practiced by the “Church”? 2. Did researching for Going Clear make you want to investigate other questionable “religions”? If so, which ones? Thanks so much for your time! Love your work!
Lawrence Wright
Alex, the Church of Scientology never threatened me physically. There were innumerable legal threats at every stage--the New Yorker article, the book, and the HBO documentary. A private detective occasionally showed up at public events where I was speaking. The church has run attack ads on me ever since. But nothing compares with the intimidation of former members, many of whom had the courage to speak out.
More Answered Questions
Jerry
asked
Lawrence Wright:
Hi Mr. Lawrence, thanks for the Looming Tower, it's a great read. You note that Jamal Khashoggi, the journalist murdered in Turkey by the Saudis, was a confidant of UBL. Why do you think Khashoggi was murdered? What are you thoughts as to why this connection was never, to my knowledge, acknowledged in the US press coverage of that event. I think the press saw it as an opportunity to smear Trump, nothing more.
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