Scientology, Church of

a religious-scientific organization and church using an L. Ron Hubbard, multi-discipline approach to understanding and improving human behavior and group activities. It includes, ~ Dianetics, see Dianetics - the Modern Science of Mental Health, a non-spiritual approach to mental improvement that does not include psych drugs, hypnosis, brainwashing, mental implants, shock treatments or any form of psych treatment; ~ an educational methoology, Study Technology, for easier, faster learning; ~ an organizational management technology for improving business performance, and ~ Scientology spiritual improvement technology for emotional and spiritual betterment in this life and beyond. Membership is open to anyone wishing to better conditions for themselves and others, and usually begins with introductory lectures and progresses through various levels of classes with everyday practical applications to reach a rational, clear-thinking, mental state called "Clear". Study beyond Clear results in a state of total spiritual freedom. Along the way one can expect an increase in personal abilities, including IQ, reaction time, getting more done in less time, and freedom from excessive self-doubt. __Study of Scientology is based upon one's own personal discovery, rather than the belief of Scientology principles; no one is asked to believe any of its principles without discovering for themselves that these principles are true, and do produce improvements, self-growth, and better relationships. Scientologists take pride in having personal freedom, sharing information, and thinking for themselves. One finds none of the flags that mark a clique, cult, or secret society. __Since Scientology technologies are improvement technologies rather than belief methodologies, one notices both members of other religions, and people holding to no belief structure or system, studying and using some or all of the technologies of Scientology, without expectation or necessity of having membership in Scientology. One also finds members of other religions claiming dual participation or membership in both Scientology and some other religion.