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Scientology beliefs and practices

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The Church of Scientology asserts that people must retain their personal integrity and can only know truth by personal observation, specifically renouncing belief based on pressure or authority. [1] The indoctrination that does exist is insistence on strict adherence to the technical counselling procedures which are the body of Scientology. [2] These procedures have a stated purpose of resolving life's common problems of existence and achieving greater spiritual awareness.[3]. Scientology texts state that an individual will only discover that Scientology works by personally applying its principles and observing or experiencing desirable results. The primary method of increasing spiritual awareness is referred to in Scientology as Auditing. Training to administer auditing to another is also considered to benefit one's spiritual awareness. The full layout of levels which one may ascend is called The Bridge to Total Freedom, with the individual progressing from Preclear, to Clear, and ultimately Operating Thetan.

The Church of Scientology claims, based on it's original study of cases and continuous affirmation from ongoing subjects, that a human is an immortal, spiritual being (termed a thetan), that is trapped in a physical body. The thetan has had innumerable past lives and it is observed in advanced Scientology texts that lives preceding the thetan's arrival on Earth lived in extraterrestrial cultures. Based on case studies at advanced levels, it is predicted that any Scientologists undergoing auditing procedure will eventually come across and recount a common series of events, or incidents, which occurred before life on earth.[4] Hubbard described these thetans in a "space opera" cosmogony.[4]

According to the Church, Hubbard's discovery of the theta places Scientology at the heart of the human quest for meaning, and proves that "its origins are as ancient as religious thought itself." However, Scientology considers that its understanding of the theta distinguishes it from other religious traditions, especially Judaism and Christianity, in three important ways. First, while many religions fuse the concept of the body and the soul, the theta is separate and independent. Second, unlike the three great world monotheisms, Scientologists believe in past lives and that the thetan has lived through many, perhaps thousands of lifetimes. Third, contrary to Christian concepts of original sin, Scientology holds to the intrinsic goodness of the theta, but believes that the spiritual essence has lost touch with its nature. "The spirit, then, is not a thing," Hubbard writes. "It is the creator of things."[5]

Scientology describes itself as the study and handling of the spirit in relationship to itself, others, and all of life. One purpose of Scientology, as stated by the Church of Scientology, is to become certain of one's spiritual existence and one's relationship to God, or the "Supreme Being."[6] Scientologists also believe that people have innate, yet suppressed, power and ability which can be unlocked.[7][8]

"The fact is," claims the Church, "Scientology works 100 percent of the time when it is properly applied to a person who sincerely desires to improve his life."[9]

Scientology does not warrant that their members must exclusively believe in Scientology, distinguishing it from biblical religions. Scientologists may profess belief in other religions such as Protestantism and Catholicism and may participate in their activities and sacred rites. Jacob Neusner emphasizes this in the section on Scientology in his book World Religions in America.[10]

Beliefs

The Bridge to Total Freedom

The Bridge to Total Freedom is the means by which Scientologists undertake personal life development. The bridge has two sides. Processing is the actual practice of "auditing" which consists, in the main, of introspection to answer key questions, which presumably lead to realizations about life. Training is education in the skill required to deliver the process of "auditing" to another. [11]

Morals and ethics

Main article: Ethics (Scientology)

Scientology teaches that progress on The Bridge requires and enables the attainment of high moral and ethical standards.[11] The main Scientology text on ethics is the book Introduction to Scientology Ethics[6]

Scientology uses the term "morals" to refer to a collectively agreed code of good conduct and defines ethics as "the actions an individual takes on himself in order to accomplish optimum survival for himself and others on all [eight] dynamics". Scientology stresses the rationality of ethics over morals: "Ethics actually consists of rationality toward the highest level of survival."; "If a moral code were thoroughly reasonable, it could, at the same time, be considered thoroughly ethical. But only at this highest level could the two be called the same".[6]

Scientologists also follow a series of behaviour codes, these are: Auditor Code, Supervisor's Code, Code of Honor and the Code of a Scientologist.[6]

Hubbard said that "the purpose of ethics is to remove counter-intentions from the environment. Having accomplished that, the purpose becomes to remove other intentionedness from the environment." Professor Stephen A. Kent interprets this as "a peculiar brand of morality that uniquely benefited [the Church of Scientology]... In plain English, the purpose of Scientology ethics is to eliminate opponents, then eliminate people's interests in things other than Scientology."[12]

ARC and KRC triangles

The ARC and KRC triangles are concept maps which show a relationship among three concepts to form another concept. These two triangles are present in the Scientology logo.

The ARC triangle is a summary representation of the knowledge the Scientologist strives for.[10] It combines three components: "Affinity" is the degree of affection, love or liking, i.e. an emotional state.[10] "Reality" reflects consensual reality, that is agreements on what is real.[10] "Communication", believed to be the most important element of the triangle, is the exchange of ideas.[10] Scientologists believe that improving one of the three aspects of the ARC triangle "increases the level" of the other two but the most important aspect of this triangle is "communication" mainly because communication drives the other two aspects: "affinity" and "reality".[13] Scientologists believe that ineffective communication is a chief cause of human survival problems, and this is reflected by efforts at all levels within the movement to ensure clear communication, the presence of unabridged standard dictionaries for example being an established feature of Scientology centers.[10]

Scriptures and practices

See also: L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology bibliography

The American science fiction author L. Ron Hubbard is considered the sole source of Dianetics and Scientology. His work, recorded in 500,000 pages of writings, 6,500 reels of tape and 42 films, is carefully protected and guarded for posterity.[14] These materials include auditing procedures, and also training procedure for the administration of Scientology facilities.[citation needed] Scientology studies are achieved by the systematic study and application of its axioms and principles.[6]

It is believed in Scientology that it will only truly work when it is applied in its pure form as Hubbard intended.[citation needed] Any alteration to these techniques is thought to hinder Scientology's effectiveness.[citation needed] Restating or interpreting the source text in one's own words is frowned upon and strongly advised against, within the Church.[citation needed] Individuals applying Hubbard's techniques who are not officially connected to the Church of Scientology are considered part of the "Free Zone". Some of these individuals were litigated against for using and modifying the practices for their own use.[15]

The Church of Scientology has issued versions of some of Hubbard's texts and recordings that contain alterations or omissions with respect to their original versions.[citation needed] These variant texts have been a subject of controversy, especially among Free Zone practitioners.

In July 2007, a re-release of all of Hubbard's basic books and tape recordings on Dianetics and Scientology was announced. The announcement was made in a speech given by David Miscavige and the Flag Land Base. In an almost three hour briefing he claimed that many errors had been found in previous versions of the books, and that a large-scale project was undertaken to locate the original dictaphone recordings and annotated transcriptions of the books and restore each work to its original form.[citation needed]

Terminology

On November 12, 1952, Hubbard explained in the lecture "Precision Knowledge: Necessity to know terminology and law” the need to have precise terminology that cannot be confused with other words or definitions. He gave emphasis on avoidance of words that have many definitions and compared the language of Scientology with the language of Math and other precise doctrines.

Scientology and Dianetics place a heavy emphasis on understanding word definitions. Hubbard wrote a book titled How to Use a Dictionary, in which he defined the methods of correcting "misunderstoods" (a Scientology term referring to a "misunderstood word or symbol"). It is believed in Scientology that complete understanding of a subject matter requires first complete understanding of the words of that subject matter. Hubbard also assembled the Technical Dictionary (ISBN 0-686-30803-4, ISBN 0-88404-037-2), a lexicon of hundreds of words, terms, and definitions that are used by Scientologists. Hubbard modified definitions for many existing English words, such as "clear" and "static." "Clear" was borrowed from early computer science during his 1948 research. He likened the human mind to a perfect computer that needed to be "cleared" of erroneous data enforced upon it from engrams or painful memories. Soon after the word "clear" as a noun meant a person who had attained such a state. He also coined many terms that are variants on standard English words, such as "enturbulate" and "havingness."

Critics of Scientology have accused Hubbard of "loading the language" and using Scientology jargon to keep Scientologists from interacting with information sources outside of Scientology (see cult for additional information).[16][17]

Interpretation and context

Scientology has a rigid doctrine which discourages secondary interpretation of its writings.[18] Students of Scientology are taught to direct others to those original sources, rather than to convey any interpretation of the concepts in their own words. Verbally discussing Scientology processes is referred to as "verbal tech," and is believed by Scientologists to ultimately interfere with the proper understanding (and consequently, the effectiveness) of the teachings.[citation needed] Scientology contends that the policy of forbidding secondary interpretation exists in order to keep its teachings unmodified, and to prevent students from passing on their misunderstandings to others.[citation needed] Emphasis is placed on keeping the writings in context.

Gradual learning

Scientologists believe that material must be learned in a definite order, never skipping to material which is overly complex before it is called for. The Church of Scientology published a particular sequence of study which must be followed in progression of Scientology. [citation needed] A Scientologist must receive the newer and higher levels only upon completion of the previous level. Scientology calls this concept a "gradient": breaking down a complicated idea into smaller pieces so that someone who could not grasp the whole idea at once can learn it piece by piece. One aspect which is taught in the gradient system is that if a person skips a gradient and is given material which is too high, he will experience mental and or physiological discomfort. Scientologists say that approaching information on a gradient keeps people from becoming confused.[citation needed]

Auditing

Main article: Auditing (Scientology)

One central practice of Scientology is an activity known as auditing (listening) which seeks to elevate an adherent to a State of Clear, one of freedom from the influences of the reactive mind. The practice is one wherein a counselor called an auditor addresses a series of questions to a preclear, observes and records the preclear's responses, and acknowledges them. An important element in all forms of auditing is to not suggest answers to the preclear or invalidate or degrade what the preclear says in response. It is of utmost importance the auditor create a truly safe and distraction free environment for the session.

"Auditing" is sometimes seen as controversial, because auditing sessions are permanently recorded and stored within what are called Preclear Folders. Scientologists believe that the practice of auditing helps them overcome the debilitating effects of traumatic experiences, most of which have accumulated over a multitude of lifetimes.[5]

"Auditors" are required to become proficient with the use of their E-meters. A typical exercise in auditor training is to be able to determine the number a silent person is thinking of. A training simulator able to recreate all manner of E-meter reactions is used to assist in Auditor training.[citation needed] E-meters include circuitry for course training supervisors to communicate with an auditor who is in session.[original research?] Auditors do not receive final certification until they have successfully completed an internship, and have demonstrated a proven ability in the skills they have been trained in.[original research?] Auditors often practice their auditing with each other, as well as friends or family. Church members pair up often to get their training, doing the same course at the same time, so that they can audit each other up through the various Scientology levels.

The body

See also: Purification Rundown

Scientology has a series of techniques called "assists" which are believed to alleviate injury, trauma or discomfort. These techniques used are based on the belief that the spirit can solve the body’s difficulties by putting the spirit in communication with the body.[citation needed]

Scientology oversees a program referred to as the "Purification Rundown", which is promoted as a method of "detoxification" developed by L. Ron Hubbard. It involves the use of saunas, exercise, vitamins, the drinking of oils, as well as light jogging. The Purification Rundown is usually the first step taken by a Scientologist attempting to attain a state of "Clear" and is promoted as a health regimen within Scientology and in Scientology's drug rehabilitation program Narconon.[citation needed]

Holidays

Main article: Scientology holidays

There are several holidays celebrated by Scientologists, notably L. Ron Hubbard's birthday in March, the Anniversary of the first publication of Dianetics in May, and Auditor's Day in September. Most official celebrations are scheduled on weekends as a convenience to members. Scientologists also celebrate secular holidays such as New Year's Eve, and other local celebrations.[19] Scientologists also celebrate religious holidays depending on other religious beliefs, as Scientologists very often retain their original affiliations with faiths in which they were raised.[20]

Controversy

Squirreling

The Church of Scientology has argued that unauthorized distribution of information about Scientology practices will endanger mankind. The Religious Technology Center has prosecuted individual breakaway groups that have practiced Scientology outside the official Church without authorization.[citation needed] The act of using Scientology techniques in a form different than originally described by Hubbard is referred to within Scientology as "squirreling", and is said by Scientologists to be "high treason".[21]

The Church of Scientology requires that all members sign a legal waiver which covers their relationship with the Church of Scientology before engaging in Scientology services.[22][23]

See also

References

  1. ^ Hubbard, L. Ron. Scientology: A New Slant On Life. Bridge Publications Inc.
  2. ^ Hubbard, L. Ron. The Student Hat Course Pack. Bridge Publications.
  3. ^ "Scientology.org - Introduction to Scientology". Church of Scientology.
  4. ^ a b Expert: Laurie Hamilton - 2/8/2006 (2006-02-08). "Scientology: L. Ron Hubbard's "space opera" material, l ron hubbard, marcab confederacy". En.allexperts.com. Retrieved 2012-08-17.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  5. ^ a b Bromley, David; Cowan, Douglas. Cults and new religions: a brief history. {{cite book}}: |access-date= requires |url= (help)
  6. ^ a b c d e Black, Alan W. (24 January 1996). "Is Scientology A Religion?". Church of Scientology.
  7. ^ "Road To Total Freedom". Panorama. BBC. 27 April 1987.
  8. ^ Farley, Robert (6 May 2006). "Scientology nearly ready to unveil Super Power". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
  9. ^ http://www.neiuindependent.com/opinions/scientology-explored-1.2919176#.UHxBbbTOdG5
  10. ^ a b c d e f Neusner, Jacob (2003). World Religions in America. Westminster John Knox Press. pp. 221–236. ISBN 0-664-22475-X.
  11. ^ a b Book: World Religions in America by Jacob Neusner | page 228. Books.google.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-10-09.
  12. ^ Stephen A. Kent (2003). "Scientology and the European Human Rights Debate: A Reply to Leisa Goodman, J. Gordon Melton, and the European Rehabilitation Project Force Study". Marburg Journal of Religion. 8 (1). Retrieved 2006-07-06. {{cite journal}}: Unknown parameter |month= ignored (help)
  13. ^ Introduction to New and Alternative Religions in America by Eugene V. Gallagher, W. Michael Ashcraft | page 176. Books.google.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-10-09.
  14. ^ Welkos, Robert W. (24 June 1990). "Church Scriptures Get High-Tech Protection". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2008-10-26. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  15. ^ Playing Dirty:The Secret War Against Beliefs, Omar V. Garrison, 1980
  16. ^ Branch, Craig (1997). "Applied Scientology In Public Schools?". The Watchman Expositor. Watchman Fellowship ministry. Retrieved 2007-01-11.
  17. ^ Wakefield, Margery (1991). Understanding Scientology. Coalition of Concerned Citizens.
  18. ^ Book: World Religions in America By Jacob Neusner, page 230. Books.google.co.uk. Retrieved 2012-10-09.
  19. ^ "Scientology Beliefs & Practices: What is Scientology?". Scientology.org. Retrieved 2012-08-17.
  20. ^ "Some Christian pastors embrace Scientology - CNN.com". CNN. 1 November 2007. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
  21. ^ Welkos, Robert W. (29 June 1990). "When the Doctrine Leaves the Church". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 2008-08-24. {{cite news}}: Unknown parameter |coauthors= ignored (|author= suggested) (help)
  22. ^ Friedman, Roger (3 September 2003). "Will Scientology Celebs Sign 'Spiritual' Contract?". FOX News. Retrieved 2008-12-07.
  23. ^ Touretzky, David S. (1 December 2003). "A Church's Lethal Contract". Razor Magazine. Retrieved 2008-12-07.

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