Science and Spirituality As Applied to OD: The Unique Christian Science Perspective

Booth, Charlotte (2020). Science and Spirituality As Applied to OD [Organizational Development]: The Unique Christian Science Perspective, A Qualitative Research Study. Pepperdine University.

Booth’s thesis seeks connections and correlations between the field of Organizational Development (OD), workplace spirituality, and quantum physics. OD applies behavioral science knowledge and practices to organizations and businesses to bring about needed change and increased efficiency. Booth’s thesis compares the existing literature and practices of Christian Science with OD models such as Appreciative Inquiry, Process Consultation and Open Space Technology. The intent of the thesis is to determine how the core principles of Christian Science might align with, and be a resource for, business challenges. Quantum physics, she claims, affects organizational development because it challenges common ideas about material reality, which, in turn, affects our state of thought and day-to-day experiences. Claiming that physicians have confirmed the positive effects of prayer on patients, the author extends this notion of benefit to the workplace culture. The thesis is based on interviews with fifteen Christian Scientists about their experience relating their theology to their business practices.Then she matches their comments with OD concepts to claim a positive or reinforcing effect. Sources include many Christian Science periodical articles and testimonies.

Note: this thesis is only available at The Graziadio Business School, Pepperdine University.

See also annotations:

Living Christian Science: Fourteen Lives by Marcy Babbitt

“Martha Matilda Harper” by The Mary Baker Eddy Library