Scientology

Established in 1954 by American pulp fiction author L. Ron Hubbard, Scientology holds the official status of a church and boasts Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise as its figureheads. It faces widespread criticism, often labelled as a dangerous cult accused of exploiting its members emotionally and financially through manipulative methods, including brainwashing. In Germany, Scientology is classified as an anti-constitutional sect due to its anti-democratic activities and ambitions of establishing global totalitarian rule. The organization is also notorious for using front companies for recruitment and economic infiltration. Notably, companies rumoured to be influenced by Scientology, such as Warsteiner in 1994 and Microsoft in 2000, faced boycotts as a direct consequence.