Scientology
Scientology questions test its modern origin, its distinctive vocabulary, its central practice of auditing, its organizational structure, and its contested legal status as a religion.
Origins and organization
L. Ron Hubbard (1911–1986) published Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health in 1950, and the Church of Scientology was founded in Los Angeles in 1954. The Church of Scientology International oversees operations, while the Religious Technology Center holds the trademarks; the Sea Org is a dedicated clerical order, and Celebrity Centres target public figures. The movement describes itself as an applied religious philosophy. The United States Internal Revenue Service recognized it as a tax-exempt church in 1993, while several European states treat it as a commercial organization rather than a religion.
Doctrine and practice
The thetan is the immortal spiritual being, distinct from the body and mind. The mind has an analytical part and a reactive part; engrams are recorded moments of pain and unconsciousness stored in the reactive mind, which trigger irrational behavior. Auditing is one-to-one counseling in which an auditor uses the E-meter, a device measuring galvanic skin response, while the preclear recalls material; the goal is to clear engrams and produce a Clear, after which the Operating Thetan levels follow. The Eight Dynamics describe urges to survive as self, family, group, mankind, all life, the physical universe, spirituality, and infinity or God. The ARC triangle links affinity, reality and communication, and KRC links knowledge, responsibility and control. Ethics and justice policies include suppressive persons and disconnection from hostile associates; the fair game policy was formally revoked. Past lives are assumed, and advanced confidential materials, including the OT III narrative reported in court records, are withheld from members until they reach that level.
Worked example
A member holds two metal cylinders connected to a meter while an auditor asks questions and adjusts the dial. Reasoning: this is auditing with the E-meter; the purpose is to locate and discharge engrams, moving the person toward the state of Clear. It is the central ritual practice, not worship of a deity, which is why the exam asks about practice rather than theology.
Traps that cost marks
- Confusing Scientology with Christian Science, founded by Mary Baker Eddy.
- Assuming uniform legal status; recognition varies by country.
- Treating Clear as the highest level; the OT levels follow.
- Describing the thetan as a created soul; it is held to be immortal and to have lived many lifetimes.