The FDA's Raid on Scientology

In January 1963, the Food and Drug Administration conducted a raid on the Church of Scientology's headquarters, seizing a large quantity of materials, including E-meters, which the FDA deemed misleading and unapproved medical devices. Scientology followers believed these devices could detect harmful energies, while in reality, they simply measured skin resistance, leading to the church's perception as a religious group being attacked by the government. This incident not only highlighted the tension between the church and regulatory authorities but also served as a rallying point for L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology, who framed the raid as an infringement on religious freedom. The perception that the government was overstepping its boundaries in targeting a small, emerging religion galvanized support for Scientology and its controversial practices.