After reading newspaper clippings, background information, and other websites on this new movement of Scientology, I have concluded that it is in fact a religion. Ask yourself; "What is religion?" You will find that religion is defined as any system of beliefs and practices, involving rituals, a code of ethics, a philosophy of life, and sacred aspects. Scientology does prove to have all of these things and the common characteristics of all other religions and therefore can be considered a true religion.
             All religions have a belief in a God or a Supernatural Being. Scientology is no different. They do not believe solely in one main source but they believe in the process of becoming a "clear" and eventually an "OT." This goal is no different than the classes in which Hinduism places its followers. Each religion wishes to achieve the status of "enlightenment." Scientology places leaders like Buddha and Jesus Christ slightly above "clears." Mainly, Scientology focuses on man becoming his own God or master of his own destiny.
             Another common characteristic of religions are a code of morality or ethics. Scientology recognizes "Eight Dynamics." Dynamics refer to an urge, impulse, or drive. Their belief is that these dynamics help a person to harmonize themselves with everything else in life. The Eight Dynamics remind me of the Five Pillars in the Islam religion or the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism.
             Ceremonial acts and symbols are also common traits throughout each religion on Earth. Though Scientology's practices may seem obscure and abnormal to most of the world, they do in fact exist. One common practice or ceremony is that of "auditing." This is a unique form of personal counseling intended to help followers improve their ability to confront what and where they are. Just like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, Scientology holds services. The...