Scientology was founded in the early 1950s by L.
Ron Hubbard, originally as a set of ideas in his book "Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health," which introduced concepts like the "reactive mind" and "engrams."
Central to Scientology is the belief in "thetans," which are considered immortal spiritual beings who have lived through multiple past lives and will continue to do so indefinitely.
The practice of "auditing" in Scientology involves a one-on-one session between an auditor and a parishioner, using a device called an "E-meter," which is believed to help individuals locate and address traumatic memories stored in the reactive mind.
Unlike many religions that focus on an omnipotent deity, Scientology emphasizes self-help and self-improvement, viewing personal spiritual enlightenment as something that must be achieved through individual effort and training.
Scientologists view the mind as divided into two parts: the analytical mind, which is rational and conscious, and the reactive mind, which is said to store painful memories and automatic reactions, negatively impacting one's behavior and well-being.
The "Bridge to Total Freedom" is a unique hierarchical structure of training and auditing levels within Scientology, where members progress through different states, culminating in the status of "Operating Thetan," where one is believed to gain greater spiritual awareness and abilities.
The Church of Scientology is known for its secretive nature, with many of its advanced teachings and practices withheld from members until they reach certain levels of training, often leading to considerable financial investment.
Scientology operates a series of affiliated organizations and subsidiary companies, both in religious and commercial capacities, which has led to accusations that it functions as a business rather than a traditional religion.
The church is often criticized for its aggressive legal tactics against critics and former members, including litigation and public smear campaigns, raising questions about its commitment to free speech and expression.
Scientology has attracted numerous celebrity adherents, including Tom Cruise and John Travolta, which has led to the perception that the church enjoys a cultural cachet that supports its public image and recruiting efforts.
Scientology claims to combine elements of Eastern and Western philosophies, including practices similar to those found in Buddhism and psychotherapy, while presenting itself as a modern, scientifically-informed religion.
The church has faced legal challenges in multiple countries regarding its status as a religion versus a commercial enterprise, affecting its tax-exempt status and ability to operate.
Auditing sessions use the E-meter, a type of electrical device that measures skin response and is believed by Scientologists to help locate spiritual distress, akin to a lie detector but with different religious implications.
Scientology’s ethics system is based on a set of principles designed to guide members' conduct, which includes policies on personal integrity, as well as disciplinary measures for those who violate church rules.
The concept of "disconnection" is a controversial practice in Scientology where members are encouraged or required to cut ties with individuals deemed as antagonistic to the church, often resulting in family estrangement.
The church has a "Sea Organization," a fraternal group of members who follow a dedicated and austere lifestyle, which includes a commitment to working for the church for limited personal gain, often living in close quarters on ships.
Scientology's teachings adapt some language and terminology similar to psychotherapy—such as overcoming trauma—while promoting its own unique vocabulary, which can create a sense of exclusive understanding among members.
Some former members have described auditing as a potentially coercive experience, where the pressure to divulge personal secrets and emotional pain can be high, raising concerns over psychological safety during the process.
The controversial status of Scientology has led to significant media scrutiny, investigative reporting, and documentaries that explore its practices, impact on members, and broader implications for freedom of belief and religion.