Mr. Schreiber,

I am writing this letter at the request of Scott McCollum in reference to a general question about LEC being a cult and in regard to any other questions about the ethics or intentions of LEC.

First off my qualifications: I am a psychologist, licensed in the state of Florida to practice psychology. I am a member of the American Psychological Association and the Florida Psychological Association, and am bound to their rigorous set of ethics. I am in private practice. I hold a doctoral degree from the Miami Institute of Psychology, a Masters in Computer Science from the University of Dayton, A BA degree from Ohio Wesleyan University, and am currently enrolled in a post doctoral program in Neuropsychology from Fielding Institute.

I have been involved with Landmark Education Corporation since July of 1991 when I was a participant in the Landmark Forum. Since that time, I have been involved with LEC as a participant (in several courses), as a volunteer (assisting with the production of courses), as a volunteer leading introductions to the Forum, and as a Therapist on call (again as a volunteer). I have recommended Landmark courses to clients and friends alike. Almost every one of them has left with good experiences and much learned about themselves and others. I am not and have not been involved with Landmark in any other area, either financially or otherwise.

As to the question of LEC being a cult: During my five+ years of active involvement, I have never seen any of the now commonly known characteristics of cult organizations. I will not detail them here as they are readily available. However, as a psychologist, I am well aware of the signs and LEC has NEVER displayed ANY of those characteristics To the contrary, in my personal experience and in the experiences of others I know, LEC leaders are almost always the most caring, human, honest, ethical, and committed of people. The courses they lead almost always deliver exactly what their brochures say they do. The organization goes to extraordinary lengths to ensure that every person and every detail is handled in the precisely correct manner to achieve the results they promise. I have never once seen anything unethical, underhanded, illegal or coercive.

Certainly, no person nor organization is perfect. Humans make mistakes, have bad days, get priorities confused. Not every person who takes a Landmark course will be transformed into superhuman performance ovenight. 'Landmark people' often use words in ways that are confusing at first. Their commitment to other people's growth at the expense of casual conversation and normal human interaction is often intimidating and confusing to many. However, in my experience, their commitment is just that -- they are committed to the growth and the improved lives of the people in their courses.

Yes, it is often 'different' from what we are used to. However, being different should not be the criteria for vilification of a person or organization. Witness the persecutions and contributions of Copernicus, Gallileo, and Joan of Arc. Instead, please judge this organization based on its merits and on the results of its courses and its participants. I'm certain that you will find much to be proud of, both for yourselves and your country.

Sincerely,

Bruce Borkosky Psy. D.

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