Origins of Scientology
Scientology is a modern religious movement founded by Lafayette Ronald Hubbard in 1954. Its roots lie in Hubbard’s earlier work, particularly his 1950 book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. Initially conceived as a secular “science of the mind”, Dianetics aimed to provide a therapeutic framework for addressing human mental and emotional problems. However, over time, Hubbard expanded his ideas into a broader spiritual philosophy, eventually establishing Scientology as a religion.
Hubbard was born in 1911 in Tilden, Nebraska, and spent much of his early life exploring various intellectual pursuits. He studied civil engineering at George Washington University but left without completing his degree. During the 1930s and 1940s, he became a prolific writer of pulp fiction, particularly science fiction—a genre that would later influence the cosmological aspects of Scientology.
During World War II, Hubbard served in the U.S. Naval Reserves and claimed to have suffered from war-related injuries. He later asserted that he healed himself using techniques that would form the foundation of Dianetics. This claim has been met with skepticism but remains central to Scientology’s origin story.
The publication of Dianetics was met with significant public interest. It quickly became a bestseller and inspired the formation of Dianetics groups across the United States and abroad. However, criticism from medical professionals and psychologists, who questioned its scientific validity, led Hubbard to reframe his ideas within a religious context. By 1954, this shift culminated in the establishment of the Church of Scientology.
Philosophical Inspirations Behind Scientology
Scientology draws inspiration from a variety of philosophical, psychological, and spiritual traditions while incorporating unique elements introduced by L. Ron Hubbard. These influences are evident in its concepts, practices, and worldview, though Hubbard presented his teachings as original discoveries based on empirical research rather than borrowing from existing systems. Below is an expanded exploration of the key inspirations behind Scientology.
Freudian Psychoanalysis
One of the most apparent influences on Scientology is Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory. Freud’s concept of the subconscious mind as a repository for repressed memories and traumas parallels Hubbard’s idea of the “reactive mind”. In both frameworks, unresolved past experiences are believed to cause irrational behavior and emotional distress in the present. However, while Freud focused on uncovering these repressed memories through free association and dream analysis, Hubbard developed a more structured process called auditing to address what he termed “engrams” (traumatic imprints stored in the reactive mind).
Hubbard diverged from Freud by emphasizing that these engrams could be entirely erased or “cleared”, leading to a state of mental liberation that Freud never claimed was possible. This optimistic view of human potential, combined with a systematic approach to self-improvement, helped distinguish Dianetics and later Scientology from traditional psychoanalysis.
Eastern Religions
Scientology shares several conceptual similarities with Eastern spiritual traditions such as Hinduism and Buddhism. For example:
- Reincarnation: Scientology teaches that individuals are immortal spiritual beings (thetans) who have lived through countless lifetimes. This belief mirrors Hindu and Buddhist doctrines of reincarnation, where souls undergo cycles of birth, death, and rebirth.
- Spiritual Liberation: Just as Buddhism seeks enlightenment (nirvana) through detachment from material desires and karmic cycles, Scientology aims to free the thetan from its entanglement with the physical universe. Achieving higher Operating Thetan (OT) levels can be seen as analogous to reaching advanced stages of spiritual awakening in Eastern traditions.
- Meditative Practices: While not identical to meditation, auditing sessions share some similarities with meditative introspection in their focus on self-awareness and confronting inner obstacles.
However, unlike many Eastern religions that prioritize humility and surrender to universal forces or deities, Scientology places greater emphasis on personal empowerment and mastery over one’s environment.
Western Esotericism
Elements of Western occult traditions also appear in Hubbard’s writings, particularly regarding self-transformation and achieving higher states of consciousness. For instance:
- The idea that humans possess latent abilities or powers aligns with esoteric teachings about unlocking hidden potential.
- The hierarchical structure of spiritual advancement in Scientology—moving from Clear to various OT levels—resembles initiation rites found in secret societies like Freemasonry or Rosicrucianism.
- Hubbard’s cosmological narratives involving extraterrestrial civilizations echo themes found in certain strands of Theosophy—a 19th-century esoteric movement that blended Eastern spirituality with Western mysticism.
It is worth noting that before founding Scientology, Hubbard had connections with figures involved in occult practices. For example, he briefly collaborated with Jack Parsons, a prominent follower of Aleister Crowley’s Thelema movement. While Hubbard later distanced himself from these associations, some critics argue that his exposure to occult ideas influenced aspects of Scientology’s theology.
Human Potential Movement
The mid-20th century saw the rise of the Human Potential Movement—a collection of psychological and philosophical approaches aimed at helping individuals realize their full capabilities. Like other movements within this framework (e.g., Gestalt therapy or Maslow’s hierarchy of needs), Scientology emphasizes personal growth through structured processes designed to overcome limitations.
Hubbard framed his teachings as tools for unlocking human potential by addressing both mental barriers (engrams) and spiritual constraints (the entrapment of the thetan). This focus on self-improvement resonated with post-war audiences seeking practical solutions for achieving success and fulfillment.
Science Fiction Themes
Given Hubbard’s background as a prolific science fiction writer during the 1930s and 1940s, it is unsurprising that elements of speculative fiction permeate Scientology’s cosmological teachings:
- Advanced OT levels introduce narratives involving extraterrestrial civilizations, intergalactic conflicts, and ancient events shaping humanity’s current condition.
- The concept of an immortal spiritual being navigating multiple lifetimes across vast stretches of time evokes themes commonly explored in science fiction literature.
Although these concepts may appear implausible to those unfamiliar with Scientology, they serve a vital role within the religion by offering members a comprehensive narrative structure through which to comprehend their role in the universe.
Pragmatism Meets Spirituality
Unlike many traditional religions that rely heavily on faith or divine revelation, Scientology presents itself as a practical system grounded in observable results. Hubbard often described his methods as scientific discoveries rather than religious doctrines:
- Auditing is portrayed as a precise technology for resolving mental distress.
- Progression through OT levels is framed as a step-by-step process akin to mastering any skill or discipline.
This pragmatic approach appeals to individuals seeking tangible benefits rather than abstract theological concepts. However, critics argue that this emphasis on practicality masks deeper metaphysical claims requiring significant leaps of faith—particularly at advanced levels where members encounter highly secretive teachings about cosmic history.
Synthesis Into a Unique System
While drawing inspiration from diverse sources—including psychology, Eastern philosophy, Western mysticism, humanistic psychology, and science fiction—Scientology synthesizes these elements into a distinctive system centered around L. Ron Hubbard’s vision:
- It combines psychological insights (e.g., addressing trauma) with spiritual aspirations (e.g., achieving immortality).
- It offers both individual-focused practices (auditing) and community-oriented structures (churches/orgs).
- It positions itself as both a religion offering ultimate answers about existence and a practical methodology for improving everyday life.
This synthesis has contributed to Scientology’s appeal among certain demographics while also fueling criticism from those who view it as an eclectic mix lacking coherence or authenticity when compared to older religious traditions.
By blending ancient ideas with modern techniques—and framing them within an overarching narrative about humanity’s cosmic origins—Scientology has carved out a unique niche within contemporary spirituality despite ongoing controversies surrounding its practices and beliefs.
Core Beliefs and Principles
At its heart, Scientology is built on several key concepts that define its worldview, practices, and spiritual goals. These principles are designed to address the nature of human existence, the mind, and the spirit, offering a framework for personal improvement and spiritual liberation. Below is an expanded exploration of these core beliefs.
The Mind: Analytic vs Reactive
One of the foundational ideas in Scientology is L. Ron Hubbard’s division of the human mind into two distinct parts:
- The Analytic Mind: This is described as the rational, logical part of the mind that processes information accurately and makes decisions based on reason. It functions like a perfect computer, analyzing data to ensure survival and well-being.
- The Reactive Mind: In contrast, this part of the mind stores traumatic memories or “engrams”. These engrams are impressions left by painful or distressing experiences that bypass rational thought. When triggered by similar situations in life, they cause irrational reactions, emotional distress, or even physical ailments.
Hubbard believed that most human suffering stems from the influence of the reactive mind. Scientology aims to help individuals identify and neutralize these engrams through a process called auditing, thereby restoring control to the analytic mind.
This dualistic view of the mind shares some similarities with Freudian psychoanalysis but diverges in its methods and ultimate goals. While Freud focused on uncovering unconscious desires through talk therapy, Hubbard emphasized erasing engrams entirely to achieve a state of mental clarity.
The Thetan: The Immortal Spiritual Being
Central to Scientology’s theology is the concept of the thetan, which represents an individual’s true self or soul. According to Hubbard:
- Thetans are immortal spiritual beings who have existed for trillions of years.
- They are not bound by physical bodies but have become trapped in material existence over countless lifetimes.
- A person’s identity is essentially their thetan; it is eternal and inherently good but has been weighed down by negative experiences accumulated over time.
Scientology teaches that spiritual progress involves rediscovering one’s true nature as a free and powerful being. This process requires overcoming physical limitations, emotional traumas (engrams), and false identities imposed by society or past lives.
The idea of thetans bears some resemblance to concepts found in Eastern religions like Hinduism (the atman) or Buddhism (the notion of enlightenment). However, Scientology frames this belief within a unique cosmological narrative involving extraterrestrial civilizations (introduced at advanced levels).
Auditing: The Path to “Clear” and Beyond
Auditing is perhaps the most distinctive practice in Scientology. It serves as both a therapeutic tool and a spiritual exercise aimed at freeing individuals from their reactive minds.
How Auditing Works:
During an auditing session, an individual (called a “preclear”) works with an auditor who guides them through specific questions designed to uncover engrams.
An electronic device called an E-meter (Electropsychometer) is used during these sessions. The E-meter measures changes in electrical resistance on the skin—interpreted as indicators of emotional charge associated with certain memories or thoughts.
By revisiting past experiences under guidance, preclears confront their engrams until they no longer trigger negative reactions.
States Achieved Through Auditing:
Clear: This is considered a major milestone where an individual has eradicated all engrams from their reactive mind. A Clear person is said to be free from irrational fears or compulsive behaviors caused by past traumas.
Operating Thetan (OT) Levels: After achieving Clear status, members can pursue advanced levels known as OT levels. These involve further spiritual training aimed at unlocking higher abilities as a spiritual being (e.g., telepathic communication or control over matter).
Auditing sessions are central not only to personal growth but also to Scientology’s organizational structure since members must pay for courses leading up through various levels.
Survival as Life’s Fundamental Drive
Hubbard proposed that all living beings share one overarching goal: survival. He identified eight dynamics—or spheres—through which this drive manifests.
- Self: Survival as an individual.
- Family/Sex: Survival through procreation and nurturing family relationships.
- Groups: Survival within social groups such as communities or organizations.
- Mankind: Survival for humanity as a whole.
- Life Forms: Survival alongside other living organisms like animals or plants.
- Physical Universe: Survival within the material world (matter, energy, space, time).
- Spirituality: Survival as an immortal spiritual being beyond physical existence.
- Infinity/God: Ultimate survival aligned with infinity or divine purpose.
These dynamics provide a model for evaluating one’s actions and aligning them with broader survival-oriented goals across all aspects of life.
Ethics and Morality
Scientology places significant emphasis on ethics as part of its belief system.
- Members are encouraged to follow what Hubbard termed “The Code of Honor”, which includes principles like integrity, loyalty, trustworthiness, and respect for others’ beliefs.
- Ethical behavior is seen not only as morally right but also essential for achieving personal success and spiritual advancement.
However, ethical violations—such as actions deemed harmful to oneself or others—are addressed through internal disciplinary procedures within Scientology organizations.
Cosmological Teachings at Advanced Levels
While much of Scientology focuses on practical self-improvement techniques accessible at introductory levels, its advanced teachings introduce complex cosmological narratives involving extraterrestrial civilizations.
- One controversial story involves Xenu—a galactic overlord who allegedly brought billions of beings to Earth 75 million years ago before destroying them with hydrogen bombs near volcanoes (as described in OT III materials).
- These events are said to have left residual effects on humanity’s collective psyche that continue influencing modern behavior.
Such teachings remain confidential within Scientology until members reach specific OT levels after extensive training—and financial contributions—which has led critics to accuse Scientology of exploiting secrecy for profit.
Evolution Over Time
Since its founding in 1954, Scientology has undergone significant changes, both in its organizational structure and public perception. These changes have been shaped by the leadership of L. Ron Hubbard during his lifetime and later by David Miscavige, as well as by external pressures from governments, media scrutiny, and former members.
Expansion Under L. Ron Hubbard
During its early years, Scientology grew rapidly under the direct leadership of L. Ron Hubbard. He was not only the founder but also the primary architect of its teachings, practices, and organizational structure. Hubbard’s prolific writing and lecturing provided a steady stream of new material for followers to study and practice. Key developments during this period include:
- Global Spread: New churches (referred to as “orgs”) were established across the United States and internationally. By the 1960s, Scientology had gained a foothold in countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, and Canada.
- Advanced Teachings: Hubbard introduced increasingly advanced courses for members who had achieved the state of “Clear”. These courses focused on higher spiritual levels known as Operating Thetan (OT) levels. Each OT level promised greater spiritual awareness and abilities.
- Organizational Complexity: To manage its growing membership and operations worldwide, Hubbard created a highly structured hierarchy within Scientology. This included specialized groups like the Sea Organization (Sea Org), an elite order responsible for managing church affairs at the highest levels.
- Legal Challenges: During this time, Scientology faced mounting legal challenges from governments and medical organizations that questioned its legitimacy as a religion and criticized its practices. In response, Hubbard developed strategies to protect the church legally and financially, including aggressive litigation against critics.
Hubbard also began introducing more esoteric cosmological teachings at higher OT levels—such as stories about extraterrestrial civilizations—that remain controversial both within and outside Scientology.
Leadership Transition After Hubbard’s Death
After L. Ron Hubbard’s death in 1986, David Miscavige assumed leadership of the Church of Scientology. Miscavige had been a close associate of Hubbard since his teenage years and played a key role in managing church operations during Hubbard’s later life when he became reclusive.
Under Miscavige’s leadership:
Tax-Exempt Status: One of Miscavige’s most significant achievements was securing tax-exempt status for Scientology in the United States in 1993 after years of legal battles with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This recognition solidified Scientology’s position as a religion under U.S. law.
Expansion Efforts: Miscavige spearheaded efforts to expand Scientology globally by acquiring high-profile properties for new church facilities known as “Ideal Orgs”. These buildings are often large, elaborate structures intended to symbolize Scientology’s growth and prominence.
Technological Modernization: The church has embraced modern technology to disseminate its teachings more widely. For example:
– The creation of online platforms where members can access courses remotely.
– The establishment of Scientology Media Productions—a state-of-the-art media center used to produce television programs, documentaries, and other content promoting Scientology.
Internal Changes
Scientology has also evolved internally over time.
- Refinement of Practices: While auditing remains central to Scientology practice, there have been updates to training materials and procedures based on what is described as “Hubbard’s original intentions”. Critics argue that these changes are sometimes made arbitrarily or for financial reasons.
- Increased Secrecy Around Advanced Teachings: As public awareness about higher-level OT materials grew, partly due to leaks on platforms like Wikileaks, the church has taken steps to tighten security around these teachings.
Public Perception Shifts
Over time, public perception of Scientology has shifted significantly.
Celebrity Involvement:
Beginning in the 1970s with high-profile converts like John Travolta and later Tom Cruise, celebrities became central figures in promoting Scientology.
The Celebrity Centre International in Los Angeles was established specifically to cater to artists, entertainers, and other influential individuals.
While celebrity endorsements brought visibility to Scientology initially, they have also drawn increased scrutiny when controversies involving these figures arose.
Media Exposure:
Books such as Lawrence Wright’s Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood & the Prison of Belief (2013) provided detailed accounts from former members about alleged abuses within the organization.
Documentaries like HBO’s Going Clear (2015) further exposed controversial aspects of Scientology’s practices.
Television series such as Leah Remini’s Scientology and the Aftermath (2016–2019) gave voice to ex-members who shared their experiences with alleged harassment or mistreatment by church officials.
Legal Battles:
In some countries—such as Germany—Scientology continues to be classified not as a religion but as a commercial enterprise or cult-like organization subject to government monitoring.
Lawsuits involving allegations ranging from forced labor within Sea Org to wrongful death claims have kept controversies surrounding Scientology in public view.
Declining Membership Numbers:
Despite claims by church leaders that membership is growing globally—with millions practicing worldwide—independent surveys suggest otherwise.
Studies indicate that active membership may number only tens of thousands rather than millions.
Former members cite high costs associated with progressing through auditing levels as one reason for declining participation.
Modern-Day Challenges
Today, under David Miscavige’s leadership:
- The Church faces increasing pressure from former members who allege psychological abuse or financial exploitation during their time within Scientology.
- Governments continue scrutinizing whether it should retain tax-exempt status given accusations that it operates more like a business than a religious institution.
Despite these challenges and widespread criticism, Scientologists remain deeply committed to their belief in spiritual freedom through self-discovery via auditing process, which is firmly rooted in the basic principles laid out decades ago by founder L. Ron Hubbard.
Parallels With Other Spiritual Traditions
While Scientology is a unique and modern religious movement, certain aspects of its teachings and practices resonate with other philosophical and spiritual traditions. These parallels help contextualize Scientology within the broader landscape of human thought, even as it diverges in significant ways.
Similarities With Eastern Religions
Scientology shares notable commonalities with Eastern spiritual traditions like Hinduism and Buddhism, particularly in its views on the soul and the cyclical nature of existence. For example:
- The Thetan and the Atman: In Hinduism, the concept of atman refers to the eternal self or soul that transcends physical existence. Similarly, Scientology’s thetan is described as an immortal spiritual being that exists independently of the body and mind. Both systems emphasize reconnecting with this true self to achieve liberation.
- Reincarnation: Like Hinduism and Buddhism, Scientology teaches that individuals live multiple lifetimes. However, while Eastern traditions often frame reincarnation as part of a karmic cycle tied to moral actions, Scientology focuses on freeing the thetan from past traumas accumulated across lifetimes.
- Liberation From Suffering: In Buddhism, enlightenment involves overcoming suffering by understanding its causes (as outlined in the Four Noble Truths). Similarly, Scientology seeks to liberate individuals from emotional pain caused by engrams stored in the reactive mind. While their methods differ—Buddhism focuses on meditation and mindfulness, whereas Scientology employs auditing—the underlying goal of personal freedom aligns closely.
Influence of Western Esotericism
Scientology also reflects elements of Western esoteric traditions, which focus on hidden knowledge and self-transformation.
- Self-Mastery: Like many Western mystical systems (e.g., Hermeticism or Theosophy), Scientology emphasizes achieving mastery over one’s own mind and spirit. The progression through Operating Thetan (OT) levels mirrors esoteric practices where initiates ascend through stages of enlightenment or secret knowledge.
- Cosmic Narratives: Advanced Scientology teachings include elaborate cosmological stories involving extraterrestrial civilizations (e.g., Xenu). This bears some resemblance to Gnostic myths about cosmic battles between light and darkness or Theosophical ideas about advanced beings guiding humanity’s evolution.
Human Potential Movement
As a product of mid-20th-century America, Scientology shares ideological ground with the Human Potential Movement—a cultural trend emphasizing personal growth through psychological techniques.
- Focus on Self-Improvement: Both movements prioritize unlocking human potential through structured processes. In Scientology, this takes the form of auditing sessions aimed at clearing mental blocks; in Human Potential programs like EST (Erhard Seminars Training), participants engage in intense workshops designed to foster breakthroughs in self-awareness.
- Empowerment Through Knowledge: Like other self-help philosophies, Scientology promises empowerment by providing tools for understanding oneself and navigating life more effectively. This focus on practical application distinguishes it from purely contemplative spiritual paths.
Contrasts With Traditional Religions
Despite these parallels, Scientology diverges significantly from most traditional religions.
- Absence of Worship: Unlike Christianity or Islam—which center around worshiping a deity—Scientology does not involve prayer or veneration of divine figures. Instead, it focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their own spiritual journey.
- Transactional Approach: One major point of contention is Scientology’s insistence on financial contributions for access to higher-level teachings. While many religious institutions encourage donations or tithing, critics argue that Scientology’s pay-to-progress model resembles a commercial enterprise more than a faith-based community.
Similarities With New Age Movements
Scientology also shares traits with New Age spirituality—a loosely defined collection of beliefs emphasizing individual transformation.
- Blending Science and Spirituality: Like many New Age philosophies, Scientology presents itself as a bridge between science and spirituality. Hubbard framed his teachings as scientific discoveries rooted in empirical research rather than purely metaphysical insights.
- Focus on Energy Fields: The use of the E-meter during auditing sessions echoes New Age ideas about energy fields within the body (e.g., chakras or auras). Both systems claim to identify blockages that hinder personal well-being.
Unique Aspects That Set It Apart
While these parallels provide context for understanding Scientology’s place among global philosophies, several features make it distinct.
- Its highly structured organizational hierarchy contrasts sharply with decentralized spiritual movements like Buddhism or New Age groups.
- Its secrecy surrounding advanced teachings sets it apart from most religions that openly share their core doctrines.
- Its reliance on copyrighted materials and trademarked terms underscore its origins as a modern institution rather than an ancient tradition.
By blending elements from diverse sources—Eastern mysticism, Western esotericism, psychology, and self-help—Scientology has created a system that appeals to those seeking both spiritual meaning and practical tools for personal development. However, its unique combination of influences has also made it one of the most polarizing religious movements in contemporary society.
Controversies Surrounding Scientology
Scientology has faced numerous controversies since its inception.
Criticism from Medical Professionals
From its earliest days, Dianetics was criticized by psychologists and psychiatrists who questioned its scientific basis.
- The American Psychological Association dismissed it as pseudoscience.
- Critics argue that auditing lacks empirical support for its claims about mental health benefits.
Allegations of Abuse
Former members have accused church leaders of abusive practices.
- Reports include allegations of forced labor within internal programs like Sea Org.
- Some ex-members describe being subjected to intense surveillance or harassment after leaving the church.
Secrecy Around Advanced Teachings
Higher-level OT materials are kept confidential within Scientology.
- Critics argue this secrecy fosters exploitation by requiring members to pay large sums for access.
- Leaked documents describing these teachings—such as accounts involving Xenu (a galactic overlord)—have fueled public skepticism about Scientology’s legitimacy.
Legal Battles
Scientology has been involved in extensive litigation worldwide.
- In some countries (e.g., Germany), it is classified as a commercial enterprise rather than a religion.
- Lawsuits have addressed issues ranging from tax evasion to wrongful death claims involving members.
Conclusion
While Scientology has attracted millions of followers worldwide, its secrecy, financial demands, and alleged abuses have sparked significant criticism and legal challenges. Despite these controversies, it continues to appeal to individuals seeking personal growth or answers to existential questions. Whether viewed as a religion, a philosophy, or a contentious organization, Scientology remains an enduring part of the modern spiritual landscape.
MINI-QUIZ: DO YOU KNOW 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!