Many of the theories and teachings of scientology are so fanciful that the reaction of the normal individual on hearing them is generally one of amusement and incredulity ... the impression may exist ... that scientology is just harmless nonsense and its followers merely queer people, that its theories are foolish but funny and that not much harm is being done by allowing silly people to have their silly beliefs and carry on their silly practices. Such an attitude is welcomed by the scientologists, for it serves to obscure the real nature of scientology.

-- from the Australian Report{1}

Incredulity of our data and validity. This is our finest asset and gives us more protection than any other single thing. If certain parties thought we were real we would have infinitely more trouble ... without a public incredulity we never would have gotten as far as we have. And now it's too late to be stopped. The protection was accidental but it serves us very well indeed. Remember that the next time the ignorant scoff.

-- L. Ron Hubbard{2}

Citations & Notes

{1} (58 in Chapter 21) final quote by Australian [261]
{2} (59 in Chapter 21) final quote by Hubbard [93a]