Scientism (Foundation) - Church Dogma

Church Dogma

When he is asked what kind of religion Scientism is, Lewis Bort, a character in "The Mayors", states that "Ethically, it's fine. It scarcely varies from the various philosophies of the old Empire. High moral standards and all that. There's nothing to complain about from that viewpoint."

From remarks made by various characters, it is apparent that the Church of Science teaches that spiritual rule of the Galaxy is held by the Galactic Spirit, though there is no mention made as to whether the Galactic Spirit is credited with creating the universe. The priesthood is taught that the Galactic Spirit guides the operation of the Foundation's technology. Hari Seldon, the founder of the Foundation, is regarded as the Prophet of the Galactic Spirit, and the people of the Foundation were chosen by Seldon to carry on his commandments, that there might one day be a return of the Galactic Paradise (the future Second Galactic Empire predicted by Seldon). Though it is not specifically stated, Salvor Hardin, as Chief Primate of the Church, is presumably regarded as Seldon's successor as Prophet of the Galactic Spirit. It is stated, though, that anyone who disobeys Seldon's commandments will be destroyed for eternity. The high priest-attendant Theo Aporat declares that engaging in sacrilege will doom a person's soul to the eternal frigidity of space. Mention is made in "The Traders" of a Book of the Spirit, presumably a codification of the Church's teachings.

The power of Scientism's pronouncements is greatly enhanced by the fact that its rituals and observances are powered by technology and science, and therefore its clergy can reliably produce "miracles" on demand: the "Holy Food" is actually medicine, so it really does cure the sick; the throne of the King of Anacreon is really a flying machine, so he can truly levitate over his subjects with a glowing aura. So deep is the indoctrination of the priesthood that they continue to believe in the miracles, even as they themselves work the technology to make them happen. Most significantly, Scientism can follow through on its threats when the people offend the Galactic Spirit, casting the navy adrift and shutting down the entire planet except for the temples, with a word from a priest.