| Christian Science is one of few native-born American faiths. It was discovered and established as an organized church in the late nineteenth century. As a religion based on the ancient Christian doctrine of healing without medicine, it caused a great deal of scandal and interest when it first gained popularity. Equally shocking was the fact that the founder was a woman. Mary Baker Eddy was the founder and leader of the Church of Christ, Scientist. This thesis presents a study of her life and influences and a philosophical and chronological history of the Christian Science movement in America. Also examined is the religious unrest of the nineteenth century in New England and the background of influences that led to the popularity of Spiritualism and other short-lived sects during the same period. |
