Conscientiology

What it is

Conscientiology presents itself as an unconventional science focused on the integral study of consciousness. Its founder, Waldo Vieira, argued that consciousness exists independently of the physical body. The movement explores parapsychic events like out-of-body experiences and reincarnation. Adherents reject traditional scientific methods in favor of subjective personal investigation. They view these concepts as empirical facts verified through individual experience rather than religious dogma.

Where it comes from

Waldo Vieira established this movement in Brazil after developing Projectiology. He split from Spiritism to create a distinct framework for studying consciousness. The group emerged as a dissident branch within the broader context of Brazilian spiritualism. Vieira sought to move beyond the theological aspects of Kardecist Spiritism toward a more experimental approach.

How it is done

Practitioners follow the principle of disbelief, encouraging members to test ideas personally rather than accepting authority. A key practice involves tenepes, a daily energetic transmission performed in solitude. This technique aims to send bioenergy to those who are ill or in need. Participants also work to acquire 'cons,' which represent units of conscious lucidity. Evolution is measured by increasing these units over successive lives.

Tools and materials

The tradition uses specific neologisms to describe its concepts. Terms like 'ressoma' replace standard words such as reincarnation. Practitioners rely on mental techniques to induce consciousness projections. Bioenergy control is central to their understanding of how interactions occur across dimensions. No physical tools are required for the core practices.

What it is for

The goal is to understand the nature of consciousness and achieve higher levels of lucidity. Followers believe they can interact with entities from other dimensions. The practice aims to support the evolutionary process of the soul through multiple lives. Tenepes serves a supportive function for both living and deceased individuals.

Who does it

Waldo Vieira led the movement until his death, known in the group as 'dessoma.' He maintained a charismatic presence often associated with white clothing and a long beard. Members commit to daily practices throughout their intraphysical life. A tenepessista performs energetic sessions anonymously in dark, silent rooms.

Peoples and places

The movement originated in Brazil and remains active there. It draws followers from various backgrounds interested in consciousness studies. While rooted in Brazilian Spiritism, it distinguishes itself through its rejection of religious labels. The community values personal verification over institutional authority.

What people believe

Conscientiology posits multiple lives and extra-physical dimensions. Consciousness is seen as a fundamental energy capable of transcending biological limits. The universe contains various energies that practitioners aim to master. Evolution occurs through acquiring lucidity units rather than earthly atonement.

When it is done

Tenepes is scheduled on a daily basis by the practitioner. There are no specific festivals or calendar days tied to the core beliefs. The practice is integrated into the routine of committed members rather than observed on special occasions.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Academic literature often classifies Conscientiology as a pseudoscience or religious phenomenon. Some researchers link its discourse to Allan Kardec's theodicy. Others place it within New Age or post-traditional religiosities. Critics note its reliance on subjective empiricism rather than objective verification.

Compare and confuse

Conscientiology shares similarities with other New Age parasciences regarding bioenergy and paranormal abilities. It differs from traditional Spiritism by rejecting charity-based evolution. The term 'tenepes' is sometimes used interchangeably with spiritist healing sessions.

Questions people ask about Conscientiology

Good reading and sources

• Conscientiology on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data