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Scientology is a belief system and movement founded by Lafayette Ronald Hubbard in 1952, evolving from his earlier self-help methodology called Dianetics. It posits that humans are immortal spiritual beings known as “thetans” who have lived past lives both on Earth and other planets, and that they are trapped in physical bodies due to accumulated traumas or “engrams”. Through a process called “auditing”, which involves counseling sessions often requiring significant financial contributions, adherents aim to clear these engrams to achieve spiritual enlightenment and regain their true thetan nature. The Church of Scientology, its primary organizational body, has been widely criticized for its secrecy, high costs, alleged exploitative practices, and controversial teachings about extraterrestrial origins. Take the quiz and find out how knowledgeable you are about Scientology!
Answer all the questions and pick one answer for each.
1. What was L. Ron Hubbard’s original profession before founding Scientology?
2. Which psychological theory significantly influenced Scientology’s understanding of the mind and the impact of past experiences on behavior?
3. What electronic device is used in Scientology during auditing sessions to measure emotional responses?
4. What is the significance of achieving the state of “Clear” in Scientology?
5. What is a significant difference between Scientology and most traditional religions regarding the structure and leadership of the organization?
6. What controversial aspect of Scientology’s advanced teachings has contributed to public skepticism and allegations of exploitation?
The correct answers are the ones corresponding to the letter C. Count the number of times you chose answer C and check your profile below.
0: You completely ignore Scientology!
1-2: You have little knowledge of Scientology
3-4: You know Scientology well enough
5-6: You must be a member of Scientology!
Explanation of answers
1. What was L. Ron Hubbard’s original profession before founding Scientology?
L. Ron Hubbard began his career as a prolific writer of pulp science fiction and fantasy novels before founding Scientology. His early works in the 1930s and 1940s established him as a well-known figure in the genre, which later influenced his creation of Dianetics and Scientology.
2. Which psychological theory significantly influenced Scientology’s understanding of the mind and the impact of past experiences on behavior?
Scientology is notably influenced by Freudian psychoanalysis, especially the idea of the subconscious mind as a storehouse for repressed memories and traumas that affect present behavior. Scientology’s concept of the “reactive mind” parallels this idea.
3. What electronic device is used in Scientology during auditing sessions to measure emotional responses?
The E-meter, or Electropsychometer, is a key tool used in Scientology’s auditing process. It measures changes in electrical resistance on the skin, which are interpreted as indicators of emotional charge connected to specific memories or thoughts.
4. What is the significance of achieving the state of “Clear” in Scientology?
In Scientology, the state of “Clear” signifies a pivotal milestone. A “Clear” individual is considered to have successfully eliminated all engrams from their reactive mind, leading to a state of mental clarity and freedom from the influence of past traumas.
5. What is a significant difference between Scientology and most traditional religions regarding the structure and leadership of the organization?
Unlike many traditional religions, Scientology operates with a centralized and hierarchical structure. Leadership decisions are made at the top levels, particularly under figures like David Miscavige, who succeeded Hubbard as leader of the Church.
6. What controversial aspect of Scientology’s advanced teachings has contributed to public skepticism and allegations of exploitation?
Scientology’s practice of keeping its advanced teachings, particularly the OT levels, confidential and requiring substantial financial payments to unlock them has generated significant criticism. This approach is seen by many as exploitative and has contributed to questions about Scientology’s legitimacy and motivations.
Disclaimer: Please acknowledge that this quiz, despite being developed by experts in the fields of spirituality and philosophy, is not intended to exhaustively probe your knowledge of Scientology. Its primary purpose is to entertain and stimulate the user’s mind and curiosity. Therefore, remember to consider its results as purely indicative and use the explanations provided as food for thought rather than as judgments about yourself.