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Scientology: Religion or Cult
Written October 7, 2007

Sometimes debate issues are so narrow in their focus. If we were to question the nature of the ideological system known as Scientology, asking whether it was a religion or a cult, the answer would depend on understanding the difference between the two. In understanding this difference, we would come to find out that Scientology can not be either a religion or a cult.

The founder of this path of knowledge, as founded by L. Ron Hubbard, reflects what he self-termed "humanism." This is the study of the human being itself. This is something that could be utilized by cultism or religion to further both sides. So we must first understand the difference between the two. So, first we go to the definitions as found in the Webster's New World College Dictionary:

Religion: 1a) belief in a divine or superhuman power or powers to be obeyed and worshiped as the creator(s) and ruler(s) of the universe. 2a) any specific system of belief and worship, often involving a code of ethics and a philosophy.

Cult: 1a) a system of religious worship or ritual. B) a quasi-religious group, often living in a colony, with a charismatic leader who indoctrinates members with unorthodox or extremist views, practices or beliefs

Humanism: 1) the quality of being human; human nature. 2) any system of thought or action based on the nature, interests, and ideals of humanity; specifically, a modern, nontheiestic, rationalist movement that holds that humanity s capable of self-fulfillment, ethical conduct, etc. without recourse to supernaturalism.

A review of the three words reveal only minor similarities, as the differences are what are important. To put the terms into my own words:

Religion is a belief that follows a set of moral directives that compels the believer or follower to live a better way in life, usually with a set of guidelines established by divine or superhuman authority, and without hurting or harming others in the process.

Cult is 1) a system of control by creating or manipulating the beliefs of others so that one person or group of people follow the commands of the leader(s). Often, this is done by telling people what to believe. This often, but not always, has an escalation that includes commanding followers to commit indecent actions, harm others, or even one's self. 2) a system where by a person or group of people justify their own actions by establishing a system or process where their actions

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