Key Takeaways
- Understanding the Basics: Scientology is a modern religious movement founded in the 20th century by L. Ron Hubbard, focusing on the spirit and its relationship to the universe.
- Core Concepts: Central beliefs include the “thetan” (the immortal spirit), the “mind” (analytical and reactive), and the goal of achieving a state of “Clear.”
- The Bridge to Total Freedom: Members progress through specific levels of auditing and training to improve their spiritual awareness and capability.
- Controversy and Curiosity: While it has many dedicated followers, the church also faces significant public scrutiny and debate regarding its practices.
Introduction
Have you ever heard someone mention L. Ron Hubbard or Dianetics and found yourself wondering, what is scientology exactly? You are definitely not alone. It is one of the most talked-about and searched-for religious movements of the modern era. Unlike ancient religions that have been around for thousands of years, this belief system emerged relatively recently in the 1950s. It presents a unique view of the human spirit and offers a structured path that followers believe leads to spiritual freedom.
The purpose of this article is to break down the complex ideas behind the movement into simple, easy-to-understand terms. We aren’t here to judge or recruit; we are here to inform. Whether you have seen celebrities talking about it on TV or just stumbled upon a book in the library, understanding the fundamentals is key. We will explore its history, its core beliefs about the human soul, the practices that members participate in daily, and why it remains such a hot topic today.
By the end of this guide, you will have a clear answer to the question what is scientology and a better grasp of why it attracts followers worldwide. We will look at everything from their view on the afterlife to the specific tools they use to “audit” their spiritual progress. Let’s dive in and explore this fascinating subject together.
The Origins: L. Ron Hubbard and Dianetics
Who Was L. Ron Hubbard?
To truly understand what is scientology, you have to start with the man who started it all: L. Ron Hubbard. Before he was a religious leader, Hubbard was a prolific writer, best known for his work in science fiction and adventure stories during the 1930s and 40s. His imagination and storytelling ability were undeniably strong, allowing him to publish millions of words in pulp magazines. However, his interests went far beyond fiction. He was deeply curious about the human mind and what makes people tick.
Hubbard spent years traveling and studying different cultures, philosophies, and even naval practices. It was during this time that he began formulating the ideas that would eventually become Dianetics. His followers view him not just as a writer, but as a philosopher and humanitarian who discovered a technology for the human spirit. His writings form the absolute scripture of the religion, and unlike other faiths where texts might be interpreted by many scholars, in this church, Hubbard’s word is considered final.
The Publication of Dianetics
In 1950, everything changed with the publication of Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. This book became an instant bestseller and sparked a self-help phenomenon across the United States. It introduced the concept of the “Reactive Mind,” which Hubbard claimed was the source of all human nightmares, irrational fears, and psychosomatic illnesses. People formed groups to practice the techniques described in the book, auditing each other to get rid of these mental blockages.
While Dianetics was initially presented as a mental health therapy, it evolved. Hubbard began to explore past lives and the spiritual nature of human existence, which moved the subject beyond just the mind and into the realm of religion. This evolution is crucial when asking what is scientology because Dianetics is the foundation upon which the religion was built. It acts as the first step for many new members, offering a secular-sounding approach to self-improvement before introducing the deeper spiritual elements.
Core Beliefs: The Thetan, The Mind, and The Body
The Concept of the Thetan
At the very heart of the religion is the concept of the “thetan.” In simple terms, the thetan is you. It is not your body, and it is not your mind; it is the spiritual being that is the source of all life and thought. While other religions might use the word “soul” or “spirit,” Hubbard used “thetan” to avoid the baggage and previous definitions associated with those older words. The belief is that you are an immortal spiritual being who has lived through countless lifetimes.
When you ask what is scientology, the answer heavily revolves around realizing your nature as a thetan. The church teaches that over trillions of years, thetans have become trapped in the physical universe and have forgotten their true spiritual power. The goal of the religion is to help the individual recover this lost awareness and ability. It is a journey of self-discovery where you learn that you are far more than just a biological machine made of meat and bone.
The Parts of Man
According to church doctrine, a human being consists of three distinct parts. First, there is the Thetan (the spirit), which is the senior part. Second, there is the Mind, which is a communication and control system used by the thetan to interact with the environment. Third, there is the Body, which is simply the physical vehicle that houses the thetan. This distinction is vital because it shifts the focus from treating the body to treating the spirit.
Understanding this tripartite view helps explain why members approach life the way they do. If the body is just a vehicle, like a car, then fixing the car doesn’t necessarily fix the driver. The “driver” is the thetan. When someone asks what is scientology focused on, it is primarily focused on the driver—improving the spiritual being so they can better handle the mind and the body. This separation allows followers to detach from physical pain or emotional trauma, viewing them as things that can be handled rather than intrinsic parts of who they are.
The Two Parts of the Mind: Analytical vs. Reactive
The Analytical Mind
Hubbard described the mind as having two primary sections. The first is the Analytical Mind. This is the part of you that thinks, observes data, remembers it, and resolves problems. It works like a perfect computer, never making a mistake unless it is given wrong data. When you are fully conscious, rational, and alert, you are using your analytical mind. It processes information rapidly and ensures your survival by making calculated decisions.
When explaining what is scientology to a beginner, the analytical mind is usually the easiest concept to grasp. It represents our best self—logical, bright, and capable. However, the religion teaches that this perfect computer gets interrupted or bypassed during moments of pain or unconsciousness. This is where the trouble begins, and it leads us directly to the concept of the “Reactive Mind,” which is the villain in the system.
The Reactive Mind and Engrams
The Reactive Mind is the part of the mind that works on a stimulus-response basis. It is not under your conscious control. According to Hubbard, when a person is in physical pain or emotionally traumatized, the analytical mind shuts down, and the reactive mind starts recording everything that is happening. These recordings are called “engrams.” An engram contains all the perceptions of that painful moment—sights, sounds, smells, and physical sensations.
Later in life, if you encounter something similar to the content of an engram, the reactive mind “plays back” the recording. This can cause you to feel irrational fear, pain, or sadness without knowing why. For example, if you were bitten by a dog while it was raining, a rainy day might make you feel anxious years later. The goal of auditing is to erase these engrams so the reactive mind no longer affects you. This process is central to answering what is scientology and how it claims to help people.
The Practice of Auditing
How Auditing Works
Auditing is the central religious practice of the faith. It is a form of spiritual counseling between a minister (called an auditor) and a parishioner (called a preclear). The word comes from the Latin audire, meaning “to listen.” The goal is to help the individual look at their own existence and improve their ability to confront what they find. It is precise, codified, and strictly followed according to Hubbard’s writings.
During a session, the auditor asks specific questions designed to help the preclear locate areas of spiritual distress or past trauma. When asking what is scientology practice like, imagine a very structured therapy session but with a spiritual goal. The preclear answers the questions, locates the source of their upset (often an engram), and by recounting it, removes its harmful power. It is not about advice-giving; the auditor never tells the person what to think, only guides them to find their own answers.
The E-Meter
A crucial tool used in auditing is the Electropsychometer, or E-Meter. This device measures minute changes in electrical resistance within the body. The person holding the cans (electrodes) has a very small electrical current running through them—about the same as a watch battery. The belief is that mental images and thoughts have mass and energy. When a person thinks of a stressful thought or a suppressed memory, it changes the electrical flow, which registers on the meter’s dial.
The E-Meter helps the auditor locate areas of spiritual charge that the person might not even be consciously aware of. It acts as a guide, ensuring that the auditing session addresses the correct issues. Critics often focus on the E-Meter as a lie detector, but within the church, it is a pastoral tool. Understanding the role of this device is essential when you explore what is scientology, as it is unique to this religion and central to their methodology for spiritual advancement.
The Bridge to Total Freedom
The Classification, Gradation and Awareness Chart
Spiritual progress in the church is mapped out on a chart called “The Bridge to Total Freedom.” This chart outlines the exact steps a member must take to reach higher states of awareness. It is divided into two sides: Training (learning the philosophy and how to audit) and Processing (receiving auditing). Members move up The Bridge one step at a time, and each step has specific requirements and expected gains.
The rigidity of this path is a defining feature. You cannot skip steps. When people ask what is scientology offering them, the answer is this Bridge—a clear, predictable path to improvement. It gives followers a sense of purpose and direction. They know exactly where they are on the chart and what they need to do to get to the next level. It effectively gamifies spiritual enlightenment, providing tangible markers of success along the way.
The State of “Clear”
One of the major milestones on The Bridge is achieving the state of “Clear.” A Clear is a person who no longer has a reactive mind. They have erased their engrams and are no longer subject to the irrational impulses and fears that plague ordinary people. The church claims that a Clear has higher IQ, better health, and a more creative outlook on life. Reaching this state is often a primary goal for new members.
Becoming Clear is a significant event, often celebrated by the community. It marks the transition from being a “Preclear” to an “Operating Thetan” (OT). While becoming Clear deals with the mind, the OT levels deal with the spirit’s relationship to the universe. This distinction highlights the depth of the theology; answering what is scientology requires looking beyond just mental health and into these metaphysical aspirations of total spiritual freedom.
Operating Thetan (OT) Levels
After achieving the state of Clear, members move onto the Operating Thetan, or OT levels. These are advanced levels of scripture and auditing that are kept confidential from the public and even from lower-level members. An Operating Thetan is defined as a spiritual being who can operate independently of the body and physical universe. The goal is to regain total cause over matter, energy, space, and time.
The OT levels are where the more esoteric and science-fiction-like aspects of the theology come into play. This includes dealing with telepathy, externalization (leaving the body), and handling spiritual impediments from past lives. For the general public asking what is scientology, the OT levels are often the most mysterious and controversial aspect, but for believers, they represent the pinnacle of spiritual freedom and ability.
Ethics and Disconnection
The Ethics System
The church has a highly codified system of ethics and justice. Hubbard wrote extensively on how groups should function and how individuals should conduct themselves to ensure survival. Ethics in this context is defined as rationality toward the highest level of survival. There are “Conditions of Existence” that a person can be in, ranging from states like “Confusion” or “Treason” up to “Power.”
Members are constantly evaluating their condition in life and applying specific formulas to improve it. If a member acts against the church or its principles, they may be assigned a lower condition and must work their way back up. This system is designed to keep the group cohesive and productive. When researching what is scientology, you will find that this strict ethical code appeals to those looking for discipline, but can feel restrictive to outsiders who value more personal autonomy.
Suppressive Persons and Disconnection
One of the most controversial policies is that of “Disconnection.” If a member is connected to someone who is hostile to the church—labelled a Suppressive Person (SP)—they may be required to cut ties with that person. An SP is considered to be someone who actively seeks to destroy the church or hinder the spiritual progress of others. The church views this as a necessary step to protect the spiritual well-being of its members.
Disconnection can tear families apart, and it is frequently cited by former members and critics as a harmful practice. The church argues that it is a fundamental human right to choose who you associate with, comparing it to cutting toxic people out of your life. However, given the religious context, the stakes are much higher. This policy is a critical part of the conversation when discussing what is scientology and its impact on social relationships.
Organization and Hierarchy
The Sea Org
At the top of the ecclesiastical hierarchy is the Sea Organization, or Sea Org. Established in 1967, this is a fraternal religious order comprising the church’s most dedicated members. They wear naval-style uniforms and sign billion-year contracts, symbolizing their eternal commitment to the religion. Sea Org members staff the advanced organizations and management centers of the church.
They live communally and work long hours for very little pay, viewing their work as essential for the salvation of the planet. They are the “monks and nuns” of the movement. Understanding the Sea Org is vital to understanding what is scientology as an institution, because this group creates the strict, disciplined culture that permeates the upper levels of the church. Their dedication drives the expansion and management of the religion globally.
Different Types of Churches
Not all locations are the same. There are small “Missions” which act as introductory centers, offering basic courses and auditing. Then there are “Class V Orgs” (Organizations), which are the standard churches found in major cities. These offer training and processing up to the state of Clear. Above these are “Advanced Orgs” and “Saint Hill” organizations where members do their OT levels.
Finally, there is the “Flag Service Organization” in Clearwater, Florida, which is the spiritual headquarters. This tiered system ensures that members must travel to specific locations to progress, creating a pilgrimage-like aspect to the religion. Just as you might visit Silicon Valley to see tech innovation—perhaps checking news at https://siliconvalleytime.co.uk/ for the latest updates—Scientologists travel to Flag for the latest and highest levels of spiritual technology.
Symbols and Holidays
The Scientology Cross
The most recognizable symbol is the eight-pointed cross. Unlike the Christian cross, this one has a specific meaning related to the Eight Dynamics. The Eight Dynamics represent the urge to survive through: self, family, groups, mankind, living things, the physical universe, spirits, and infinity (or God). The cross symbolizes the ability to live happily across all these areas of life.
It is a unifying symbol that answers what is scientology aiming for: survival across every possible spectrum of existence. While it looks religious, its meaning is rooted in Hubbard’s philosophical categorization of life. It serves as a reminder to members of their responsibilities to themselves and the world around them.
Major Holidays
The church celebrates several major holidays throughout the year. The most significant is L. Ron Hubbard’s Birthday (March 13), celebrated with large events and announcements of expansion. Other dates include the anniversary of the publication of Dianetics (May 9) and Auditor’s Day (second Sunday in September).
These events are usually hosted in large auditoriums with elaborate presentations showing the church’s growth and victories. They serve to boost morale and reinforce the group’s purpose. For an outsider wondering what is scientology culture like, these events are a mix of corporate shareholder meetings and religious revivals, filled with applause, awards, and speeches about saving the world.
Scientology vs. Psychiatry
The Conflict
The church is famously opposed to modern psychiatry and the pharmaceutical industry. Hubbard taught that psychiatry is abusive and fraudulent, claiming it damages the brain and prevents spiritual healing. The church views psychiatrists as “psychs” who have historically suppressed human freedom. This is why they vehemently oppose the use of antidepressants and other psychotropic drugs.
This stance often puts them at odds with the medical establishment. They have established the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a watchdog group dedicated to exposing psychiatric abuse. When asking what is scientology doing in the public sphere, much of their activism is focused on fighting psychiatry. They promote their own methods as the only viable alternative for mental healing.
Alternative Approaches
Because they reject psychiatry, they offer their own solutions for mental distress and addiction. One of the most well-known is Narconon, a drug rehabilitation program based on Hubbard’s writings. It involves saunas, vitamins, and communication drills to detoxify the body and mind. While the church touts high success rates, medical experts often criticize the program for lacking scientific backing.
Their rejection of psychology and psychiatry is total. They believe that the reactive mind is the true cause of insanity and neurosis, and that only auditing can resolve it. This is a fundamental worldview difference that defines the boundary between the church and secular society. It is a critical component of what is scientology teaches regarding health and wellness.
Famous Followers and Public Perception
Celebrity Involvement
The church has actively courted celebrities since its early days, establishing “Celebrity Centres” specifically for artists. Famous figures like Tom Cruise and John Travolta have brought immense visibility to the religion. The church believes that artists shape the culture, so helping them helps spread the message.
Celebrities often credit the religion with their success, focus, and ability to handle the pressures of fame. However, this high-profile association is a double-edged sword. While it attracts attention, it also attracts scrutiny. When people ask what is scientology, the answer is often filtered through the lens of Hollywood gossip and celebrity behavior, which can obscure the actual theology.
Controversies and Criticism
Despite its growth, the church faces intense criticism. Former members have alleged abuse, human trafficking, and financial exploitation. Documentaries like Going Clear have brought these allegations to a mainstream audience. The church consistently denies these claims, labeling them as lies from disgruntled apostates.
The secrecy surrounding the upper levels and the aggressive legal tactics used against critics have contributed to a reputation of being litigious and secretive. For the general public, the question what is scientology is often linked with questions about whether it is a legitimate religion or a high-control group. This tension between the church’s narrative and the media’s narrative defines its current place in society.
Comparison Table: Scientology vs. Traditional Religions
|
Feature |
Scientology |
Christianity/Judaism/Islam |
|---|---|---|
|
Concept of God |
“Infinity” or the 8th Dynamic; no specific deity defined. |
A specific, personal God or Creator. |
|
Human Nature |
Basically good; an immortal spirit (Thetan). |
Often viewed as sinful or in need of redemption/submission. |
|
Salvation |
Achieved through personal effort, auditing, and knowledge. |
Achieved through faith, grace, and divine intervention. |
|
Scripture |
Writings and lectures of L. Ron Hubbard (unchangeable). |
Bible, Torah, Quran (ancient texts). |
|
Afterlife |
Reincarnation; the thetan picks up a new body. |
Heaven, Hell, or an afterlife determined by God. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Scientology a Christian religion?
No, it is not Christian. It does not worship Jesus Christ or use the Bible as scripture. However, it claims to respect other faiths and does not demand you renounce your current religion to begin studying, though dedicated members typically focus exclusively on Hubbard’s teachings eventually.
How much does it cost?
There is no tithe like in many churches. Instead, members pay “fixed donations” for courses and auditing. Prices can range from roughly $50 for introductory books to thousands of dollars for intensive auditing packages. The church argues that this system supports its massive overhead and expansion.
What is the “E-Meter” really measuring?
Scientologists believe it measures the mass of thoughts and the resistance of the spirit. From a purely scientific standpoint, it is a galvanometer measuring skin conductance (electrodermal activity), similar to components used in lie detectors, though the church explicitly states it is a religious artifact, not a medical device.
Can anyone join?
Yes, the churches are open to the public. Anyone can walk in, take a personality test, or buy a book. The path is open to anyone who wants to start “The Bridge,” regardless of background, though moving up the levels requires significant time and financial commitment.
Why is “what is scientology” searched so often?
It is searched often because of the high curiosity gap. The mixture of celebrity involvement, science-fiction elements, controversies, and unique terminology creates a mystery that people want to solve. It is distinct from almost any other religious movement in the public eye.
Conclusion
So, what is scientology? In summary, it is a complex religious system that combines self-help psychology, spiritual philosophy, and rigid organizational structure. It offers a path—The Bridge—that promises to free the immortal spirit from the burdens of past trauma and the reactive mind. From the foundational book Dianetics to the advanced OT levels, it provides a comprehensive worldview for its followers, redefining how they see themselves and the universe.
Whether you view it as a path to enlightenment or a controversial organization, its impact on modern culture is undeniable. It challenges traditional views of the soul and offers a technological approach to spirituality that resonates with some while alienating others. Understanding it requires looking at both its stated goals of a civilization without insanity and the heated debates that surround its methods. Ultimately, it remains a unique phenomenon of the 20th and 21st centuries, continuing to spark curiosity and conversation globally.
