The Difference Between Science of Mind and Unity Religious Traditions

The Science of Mind and Unity are two distinct branches of the New Thought movement, a spiritual and philosophical movement that emerged in the late 19th century. Both traditions share similar beliefs about the power of thought and the interconnectedness of all life. However, they differ in their approaches to spirituality, theology, and practice. This essay explores the differences between these two religious traditions, highlighting their unique characteristics and foundational teachings.

Historical Background and Founders

Science of Mind, also known as Religious Science, was founded by Ernest Holmes in the early 20th century. Holmes was deeply influenced by the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Thomas Troward, and other thinkers who emphasized the power of the mind and the metaphysical interpretation of the Bible. His seminal work, "The Science of Mind," published in 1926, laid the foundation for the teachings of this tradition. Holmes sought to create a spiritual philosophy that integrated science, religion, and philosophy, emphasizing the idea that individuals can shape their reality through the power of their thoughts.

Unity was founded by Charles and Myrtle Fillmore in the late 19th century. The Fillmores were initially influenced by Christian Science, but they developed their own teachings that incorporated positive thinking, prayer, and the metaphysical interpretation of the Bible. Unity's focus is on spiritual healing, prosperity, and the practical application of Jesus' teachings. The Fillmores believed that through spiritual education and understanding, individuals could achieve health, happiness, and success.

Theological Perspectives

Both Science of Mind and Unity emphasize a divine power or intelligence that permeates the universe. However, their theological interpretations differ:

Science of Mind: This tradition views God as an impersonal, universal consciousness that is present in all things. God is not a personal deity but the creative intelligence that manifests itself in the universe. The Science of Mind teaches that this divine power can be accessed and used through the power of thought and intention. It emphasizes the concept of "mental science," where one's thoughts and beliefs create their reality. According to this view, individuals are co-creators with the divine, shaping their lives through their mental attitudes and beliefs.

Unity: While Unity also believes in a universal divine presence, it emphasizes a more personal relationship with God. Unity teaches that God is both immanent (within each individual) and transcendent (beyond the physical world). This tradition places a strong emphasis on the teachings of Jesus Christ, seeing him as a master teacher and a model for spiritual living. Unity interprets the Bible metaphysically, focusing on the inner, spiritual meaning of the scriptures rather than on a literal interpretation. It promotes the idea that everyone has the Christ potential within them, which can be awakened through spiritual practice and understanding.

Spiritual Practices

Both traditions offer spiritual practices designed to help individuals connect with the divine and manifest positive outcomes in their lives. However, their approaches differ:

Science of Mind: The primary practice in Science of Mind is spiritual mind treatment, a form of affirmative prayer. This practice involves recognizing the divine, realizing one's unity with it, and affirming positive outcomes. Spiritual mind treatment is a scientific method of prayer designed to change one's consciousness and align it with the desired outcome. Meditation, visualization, and affirmations are also commonly practiced in Science of Mind communities to cultivate a positive mindset and spiritual awareness.

Unity: Unity emphasizes affirmative prayer and meditation as central practices. Affirmative prayer in Unity is about affirming the truth of one's spiritual nature and aligning with the divine presence. Silent Unity, a prayer ministry founded by the Fillmores, offers prayer support to individuals worldwide. Meditation is used to quiet the mind and connect with the inner divine presence. Unity also places a strong emphasis on practical Christianity, encouraging individuals to apply spiritual principles in their daily lives to experience transformation and healing.

Views on Healing and Prosperity

Both Science of Mind and Unity emphasize the power of the mind in healing and prosperity, but their approaches have nuanced differences:

Science of Mind: Healing in Science of Mind is based on the belief that illness results from mental and spiritual disharmony. By changing one's thoughts and beliefs, individuals can align themselves with the perfect health that is their divine inheritance. Prosperity is a natural outcome of living in harmony with the divine laws of abundance. Science of Mind encourages individuals to use affirmative prayer to manifest health, wealth, and happiness.

Unity: Unity also believes in the mind's power to heal, but it places a stronger emphasis on the role of spiritual understanding and aligning with God's will. Healing is seen because of aligning with the divine presence within. Prosperity is viewed as a state of consciousness, where individuals experience abundance as they grow in spiritual understanding. Unity teachings encourage individuals to seek inner transformation, trusting that outer circumstances will reflect their inner spiritual growth.

Organizational Structure and Community

Science of Mind: The organizational structure of Science of Mind is relatively decentralized. The Centers for Spiritual Living, a major organization within Science of Mind, oversees various centers and churches. These centers operate independently, offering classes, workshops, and services that promote the teachings of Science of Mind.

Unity: Unity has a more centralized structure, with Unity World Headquarters and Unity Worldwide Ministries overseeing its churches and centers. Unity offers a range of educational programs, publications, and resources to support spiritual growth. The Unity movement is known for its publishing arm, which produces books, magazines, and other materials that promote Unity teachings.

Summary

In conclusion, while Science of Mind and Unity share common roots in the New Thought movement and similar beliefs about the power of thought and the presence of the divine, they differ in their theological perspectives, spiritual practices, and approaches to healing and prosperity.

Science of Mind focuses on the principles of mind and consciousness, emphasizing the impersonal nature of the divine, the power of thought, and personal relationship with the Divine.

Unity, on the other hand, emphasizes a more personal relationship with God, the metaphysical teachings of Jesus, and the practical application of spiritual principles in daily life.

Both traditions offer valuable insights and practices for individuals seeking to explore the power of the mind and the presence of the divine in their lives.

Lawrence De Rusha, Ph.D. Co-minster CSL St. Louis, MO

Original essay Science of Mind Versus Unity, 2004