Abstract

This study is a social historical examination of the use of science and technology within new religious belief systems. The emphasis is placed upon the incorporation of scientific method, scientific findings, scientific theory, scientific terminology, and technological components within the rhetoric and praxis of historical and contemporary new religions. The purpose of this study is to examine the social factors that have influenced the amalgamation between religion and science within these groups. Exploring both the secularization theory and the rise of scientific ideology as sources that instituted this combination, I will demonstrate that new religious movements incorporating science within the belief system are representing a direct reaction to these phenomena. By relying upon the work of theorists, combined with primary source material from three new religious movements, I hope to demonstrate that this appearance represents a current religious reaction to contemporary Western culture.

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