INFO
AT A GLANCE
Description.
Scientology
is a novel and eclectic religion drawing from Eastern philosophy,
modern psychology, and occult practice. It seeks to release human
potential, free the soul, and restore people to their original state
as pure, immortal spirit
Founder. L. Ron Hubbard
(1911-86).
How does it claim to work?
Through its "counseling" procedures (termed
"auditing"), Scientology alleges to offer the only final
solution to mankind’s problems. Auditing "locates" and
"resolves" "engrams," or past traumatic
experiences that allegedly inhibit true spiritual enlightenment.
Scientology claims it can eventually free the human spirit from its
bondage to the material world.
Scientific evaluation.
While the specific religious tenets of Scientology are incapable of
scientific evaluation, many of its stated beliefs that are capable of
evaluation run contrary to most basic data in the natural and social
sciences.
Examples of occult potential.
Development of psychic powers, out-of-body experiences, and other
occult practices.
Major problems. The
specific claims of Scientology in many different fields of study are
inconsistent with known data; the extent to which Scientology has or
has not reformed its past methods of dealing with critics; the
rejection of the material world as an "illusion."
Biblical/Christian evaluation.
As an occult religion having specific theological beliefs contrary to
biblical teaching, membership in the Church of Scientology is
prohibited for Christians.
Potential dangers. The
acceptance of false data carries its own consequences; the physical,
psychological, and spiritual hazards associated with occult practice;
psychological harm from auditing.
Note: This material
originally appeared in the Christian Research Journal, Summer
1995.
