Alcoholism: ITS CAUSE and CURE From the viewpoint of Science of Mind by Ernest Holmes
Alcoholism: Its Cause and Cure — From the Viewpoint of Science of Mind
by Ernest Holmes
Published by: Science of Mind Publications, Los Angeles, CA
Copyright: 1941 by Church of Religious Science
Edition: Eighth Printing — October 1983
Format: Softcover booklet, orange wraps
Pages: 20
Description
This scarce pamphlet, Alcoholism: Its Cause and Cure, presents Ernest Holmes’ metaphysical understanding of addiction and recovery through the lens of his Science of Mind philosophy. Originally published in Science of Mind Magazine in June 1941—just six years after Alcoholics Anonymous was founded—Holmes’ essay offers an early spiritual psychology of alcoholism that parallels many of the insights later embraced in recovery movements.
Holmes approaches alcoholism as “a wrong adjustment to life,” an emotional and spiritual imbalance that can only be healed by right thinking, creative self-expression, and service to others. He writes that true recovery involves not only overcoming addiction but finding new purpose and joy in giving back—a theme strikingly similar to the 12th Step philosophy that would become central to AA.
The Foreword (by the author) emphasizes service as a path to permanent happiness:
“It is generally accepted that some form of useful service to humanity, perhaps helping others who have suffered from the same delusions, is one of the best possible ways of seeking permanent happiness.”
Condition
Very Good. Clean and tight with minimal wear to covers; light scuffing and faint edge wear on spine; interior pages crisp and unmarked.
Historical Note
Ernest Holmes (1887–1960), founder of the Religious Science movement, developed the Science of Mind philosophy that became a cornerstone of New Thought spirituality. His writings greatly influenced mid-century ideas of spiritual healing, self-mastery, and the power of the mind to shape reality. This essay remains an important piece in the history of spirituality and recovery, bridging early metaphysical thought and the emerging understanding of addiction as both a moral and psychological condition.
