History of New Thought & Unity

Just as one’s previous life experiences underlie one’s current expression, so the history of a tradition underlies that tradition’s current expression. The foundations of Unity as a contemporary movement are explored in its roots in Transcendentalism, Christian Science and New Thought. Students explore Unity’s history and original cultural milieu. They have the opportunity to consider the possibilities of Unity as an evolving cultural phenomenon. This historical exploration includes exposure to ideas, beliefs and philosophies of the main “architects” of this stream of spiritual thought that in some ways has connections back to antiquity.

Course Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

• Explain New Thought and demonstrate how it is similar to and different from more traditional views of spirituality.
• Identify some of the key people and major events in the development of both the New Thought and Unity spiritual movements.
• Summarize the history of Unity School of Christianity and its ministries of prayer, publishing and education.

Required Text/Readings:

• Articles and videos provided in online, noted in MODULES