"The Church of Scientology has often been viewed from the narrow perspective of legitimacy: Is it a true religion or merely a (destructive) cult? Here is a book, consisting of 22 articles by 27 authors, that views Scientology from the broader perspectives of culture, religion, and philosophy. The outcome is a sober and balanced presentation of this most controversial contemporary religion in the Western world that no doubt will be appreciated by fair-minded and inquisitive readers. A truly outstanding collection of essays for all students of religion, beginning or advanced."--James A. Santucci, Professor and Chair of Comparative Religion, California State University, Fullerton "For any reader interested in Scientology, this is an indispensable book. Accessibly written, thoroughly researched and broad in its coverage, it will be the standard reference on this highly visible and controversial new religious movement for years to come."--Olav Hammer, Professor, Institute of Philosophy, Education and Religious Studies, University of Southern Denmark "The master of the edited volume on new religious movements and unusual cultural phenomena, James R. Lewis, has once again brought together a diverse group of scholars to explore a religion that most of us only know through sensational news headlines. This comprehensive volume maps the broad terrain that lies between proponents and polemical critics of Scientology. In essays on its science fiction origins and healing practices, among many other compelling topics, contributors reach beyond the cult stereotype to take seriously the religious lives of Scientologists. This is a unique and fascinating study of religion in the context of late twentieth and early twenty-first century technology and culture."--Sarah M. Pike, author of New Age and Neopagan Religions in America and Earthly Bodies, Magical Selves: Contemporary Pagans and the Search for Community