Ernest Holmes

Ernest Holmes (1887-1960) was an influential American spiritual teacher and author who founded Religious Science, a significant branch of the New Thought movement. As the creator of "The Science of Mind" philosophy, he established a systematic approach to spiritual living that combined metaphysical principles with practical application. Holmes wrote numerous books, with his seminal work "The Science of Mind" (1926) becoming a cornerstone text in New Thought literature. He founded Science of Mind magazine in 1927, which continues publication today, and established the Institute of Religious Science and School of Philosophy in Los Angeles. His teachings emphasized the unity of all life, the power of positive thinking, and the direct relationship between thoughts and life experiences. Holmes developed these concepts while studying various philosophical and religious traditions, including Divine Science, where he served as an ordained minister. The practical impact of Holmes's work extended beyond religious circles into the broader self-help movement, influencing numerous authors and teachers in the fields of personal development and spiritual growth. His ideas about the relationship between mind and reality continue to shape contemporary discussions about consciousness and human potential.

Readers consistently highlight Holmes's ability to explain complex metaphysical concepts in clear terms. Many reviews note his methodical approach to spiritual principles and the practical applications in daily life. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of mind-spirit connections - Step-by-step methods for applying principles - Blend of science and spirituality - Inclusive approach that respects all faiths What readers disliked: - Dense, repetitive writing style - Dated language from the 1920s - Complex terminology needs multiple readings - Some sections feel overly theoretical Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.3/5 from 2,800+ ratings Amazon: 4.7/5 from 1,200+ ratings "The Science of Mind" receives the most reviews, with readers like Michael S. noting it "requires study rather than casual reading." Several reviewers mention marking passages to revisit. Critical reviews often cite the challenging vocabulary and abstract concepts, with one reader calling it "impenetrable without a study group."

The Science of Mind (1926) A comprehensive text explaining the philosophical framework of Religious Science, including detailed explanations of mental healing, meditation practices, and the relationship between thought and reality.

This Thing Called You (1948) An exploration of individual spiritual identity and consciousness, examining how personal beliefs shape life experiences.

Living the Science of Mind (1940) A practical guide demonstrating the application of Science of Mind principles in daily situations and problem-solving.

Creative Mind (1919) An introduction to fundamental concepts about the creative power of thought and its influence on life circumstances.

Creative Mind and Success (1919) An examination of how mental principles can be applied specifically to achieving practical goals and material success.

Questions and Answers on the Science of Mind (1953) A collection of common inquiries about Religious Science principles with Holmes's direct responses and explanations.

Words That Heal Today (1949) A systematic analysis of various spiritual statements and affirmations, explaining their practical application in daily life.

New Thought Terms and Their Meanings (1942) A dictionary-style reference book defining and explaining key concepts and terminology used in New Thought philosophy.

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote extensively about the power of individual thought and transcendental philosophy that heavily influenced Holmes's own work. His essays on self-reliance and the oversoul parallel many of Holmes's core teachings about the relationship between mind and reality.

Emma Curtis Hopkins served as a key figure in the New Thought movement and taught many of its prominent leaders, including Holmes. She developed systematic metaphysical teachings about healing and consciousness that formed part of the foundation for Religious Science.

Thomas Troward wrote influential works on mental science and the creative power of thought that Holmes frequently referenced and built upon. His books "The Edinburgh Lectures on Mental Science" and "The Creative Process in the Individual" contain principles that align directly with Holmes's philosophy.

William James explored the psychology of religious experience and the nature of consciousness in ways that complement Holmes's teachings. His pragmatic approach to spirituality and investigation of metaphysical phenomena provides scientific context for many of Holmes's concepts.

Phineas Parkhurst Quimby developed the early framework of mental healing and the connection between thought and health that Holmes later expanded. His work as a mental healer and his writings on the power of belief directly influenced the development of New Thought principles that Holmes taught.