Article June 6, 1914 Issue

Christian Science: Its Legal Status

JUDGE CLIFFORD P. SMITH

Christian Science, as its name indicates, is an interpretation of the religion that was taught and practised by Christ Jesus. Any one who, without hostility, reads the Christian Science text-book, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mrs. Eddy, will find it to be based on the Scriptures, and will find in it a more obvious correspondence or plainer consistency with the Bible than is furnished by any of the more popular interpretations. Such a reader of this book will see that it contains a statement of knowledge or science concerning God, man, and the universe, with which he may or may not agree, but which is plainly ethical, scientific, and religious in character. Be it called orthodox or heterodox, when compared with either primitive or recent Christianity, the system of thought presented as Christian Science is plainly Christian in basis and purpose. If this be true, it would tend to promote the health, morals, and spiritual welfare of its adherents; and it is a matter of common knowledge that a multitude of intelligent people bear witness to these benefits from this teaching.

Independence within the field of science is favored by enlightened public opinion, because such independence is essential to progress. There would be small hope of advancement if those who endeavor to extend the scope of human knowledge, or to correct it, were obliged to square their views with the beliefs which for the moment are prevalent. It is largely from the teachings of original and independent thinkers that the world gains more knowledge and true knowledge.

The fact, therefore, that Christian Science differs from the opinions which are at present held by the majority of people respecting the cause and cure of disease, furnishes no reason why the government should attempt to hinder or suppress its practice. It is generally known that the medical theory and practice with respect to this matter has been profoundly modified since the teaching and practice of Christian Science began, and at least in part by reason thereof. In these forty odd years the use of drugs has greatly diminished, various drugless systems have gained a wide vogue despite ridicule and opposition, and the mental element in the cause and cure of disease is more and more taken into account by all schools.

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