L. Ron Hubbard and Scientology Studies

This Element surveys the history and practice of Scientology studies over the past sixty years.

Donald A. Westbrook (Author)

9781009014557, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 14 July 2022

75 pages
23 x 15.2 x 0.4 cm, 0.12 kg

This Element surveys the history and practice of Scientology studies over the past sixty years and offers resources for scholars and students moving forward. Section 1 reviews the history of academic research on the subject from 1958 to the present day. Section 2 draws on the author's fieldwork with the Church of Scientology to illuminate how founder L. Ron Hubbard (1911–86) is viewed among contemporary members. Section 3 considers Hubbard's influence and legacy in terms of the church sites and institutions that exist today in connection with the soteriological 'Bridge to Total Freedom.' Section 4 introduces English-language archival resources and their strengths. Section 5 proposes some open areas for Scientology researchers. Finally, glossaries of terms and appendices are included with major dates in Hubbard's life and Scientology research and bibliographical information for major archival collections in North America.

1. Scientology Studies: Theory and Practice
2. Fieldwork and the Scientological Worldview
3. Pilgrimage and the Bridge to Total Freedom
4. Archival Research
5. Target Two
Glossary of Terms
Glossary of Acronyms
Appendix A: Timeline of Major Events in Hubbard's Life and Scientology History/Research
Appendix B: Selected Archives and Finding Aids.

Subject Areas: Other non-Christian religions [HRK], History of religion [HRAX]