Actor Tom Cruise is the new public face of the Church of Scientology.

The church is based on the teachings of its founder L. Ron Hubbard, who is author of “Dianetics” – the cornerstone of the religion.

Members say Scientology has changed their lives. Yet some critics have called Scientology a “global racket.”

Hear about the teachings and reach of the Church of Scientology.

Guests:

James Verini, reporter at the online magazine Salon.com and author of the first in a four-part series called the Summer of Scientology.

Susan Setta, professor of philosophy and religion at Northeastern University

Stephen Kent, professor of sociology at the University of Alberta in Canada. He has written extensively on the Church of Scientology and testified against the church in court cases.