Scientology

Definition

Scientology is a religious movement founded by science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard in the early 1950s, focusing on the belief that humans are spiritual beings known as 'thetans' who are trapped in a physical body. The movement promotes the idea of self-improvement and spiritual enlightenment through a process called 'auditing,' which aims to clear individuals of negative experiences and traumas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scientology has faced significant controversy, including accusations of being a cult, allegations of abusive practices, and legal battles over its tax-exempt status as a religion.
2. The Church of Scientology operates various organizations and missions around the world, focusing on outreach programs such as drug rehabilitation, education, and human rights initiatives.
3. Prominent celebrities have publicly supported Scientology, which has contributed to its visibility and cultural impact, including figures like Tom Cruise and John Travolta.
4. Scientology teaches that individuals can improve their lives through spiritual counseling and self-help techniques, emphasizing personal responsibility and empowerment.
5. The organization maintains strict confidentiality regarding its advanced teachings, leading to criticism over its secretive nature and the high costs associated with its training programs.

Review Questions

• How does auditing play a role in the beliefs and practices of Scientology?
  • Auditing is fundamental to Scientology's belief system as it serves as the primary method for individuals to confront and clear negative experiences from their past. During auditing sessions, trained auditors use an E-meter to guide individuals through their memories, aiming to address traumas that hinder personal development. This process is believed to restore spiritual clarity and enhance an individual's ability to navigate life effectively.
• Evaluate the significance of L. Ron Hubbard's writings in shaping the beliefs and practices within Scientology.
  • L. Ron Hubbard's writings are crucial in shaping Scientology's beliefs and practices, especially his foundational work 'Dianetics,' which introduced concepts such as the mind's reactive and analytical components. His teachings provide a framework for understanding human existence as fundamentally spiritual, emphasizing the importance of the thetan. These writings not only establish core doctrines but also guide followers on their spiritual journey through structured methodologies like auditing.
• Assess how Scientology's controversies have influenced its public perception and growth as a new religious movement.
  • The controversies surrounding Scientology, including accusations of cult-like behavior, legal disputes over its tax-exempt status, and reports of abusive practices, have significantly shaped its public perception. These issues have sparked both criticism and intrigue, leading to intense media coverage that can attract attention while also fostering skepticism. Despite—or perhaps because of—these controversies, Scientology has continued to grow by leveraging celebrity endorsements and maintaining a strong organizational presence globally, demonstrating how both negative and positive narratives can impact the trajectory of a new religious movement.

Related terms

Auditing: A central practice in Scientology, auditing involves a one-on-one session between a trained auditor and a parishioner, using a device called an E-meter to help identify and address past traumas.

Thetan: In Scientology, thetan refers to the true spiritual essence of a person, believed to be immortal and capable of creating its own reality, but often trapped in the physical realm due to past negative experiences.

Dianetics: A set of ideas and practices regarding mental health developed by L. Ron Hubbard, Dianetics serves as the foundational text for Scientology and outlines methods for achieving spiritual clarity and personal growth.