Scientology is a religion started in the 1950s by former science fiction writer L. Ron Hubbard. It is known for its system of intellectual and emotional training designed to improve its members' psychological and spiritual health. It describes itself as an "applied religious philosophy" and has both extremely strong advocates and detractors (who consider it a cult). The Church of Scientology is also known for pushing the boundaries of intellectual property law: they have sued those who copy their texts/manuals. These cases are studied as part of required coursework by all students of intellectual property law in the United States.

Primary Tenets of Scientology include:

• Man is an immortal spiritual being.
• His experience extends well beyond a single lifetime.
• His capabilities are unlimited, even if not presently realized.