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Study Guide: Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy: Origins and Developments

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Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy: Origins and Developments Study Guide

Foundations of Theosophy and Helena Blavatsky

Helena Blavatsky, William Quan Judge, and Henry Steel Olcott are listed as the founders of the Theosophical Society.

Answer: True

Explanation: Helena Blavatsky, William Quan Judge, and Henry Steel Olcott are listed as the founders of the Theosophical Society.

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Which of these is listed as a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy?

Answer: *The Secret Doctrine*

Explanation: *The Secret Doctrine* is listed as a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, alongside other foundational works like *Isis Unveiled*.

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The Theosophical Society: Schisms and Factions

The major division within the Theosophical Society after Blavatsky's death involved a dispute between William Quan Judge and Henry Steel Olcott over financial matters.

Answer: False

Explanation: The major division within the Theosophical Society after Blavatsky's death involved disputes over allegations of forged letters from the Mahatmas, primarily between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction, not financial matters.

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Following the 1895 split, William Quan Judge continued to lead the Theosophical Society based in India.

Answer: False

Explanation: Following the 1895 split, William Quan Judge led the American Section of the Theosophical Society, while the branch based in India continued under Olcott and Besant.

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The Theosophical Society - Adyar is the branch that originated from William Quan Judge's faction.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar is the branch that continued under Olcott and Besant, originating from the main body of the Society after the split with William Quan Judge's faction.

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The allegation that William Quan Judge forged letters from the Mahatmas was the primary reason for the Theosophical Society's split in 1895.

Answer: True

Explanation: The allegation that William Quan Judge forged letters from the Mahatmas was the primary reason cited for the Theosophical Society's split in 1895.

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The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the current name for the branch led by Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the current name for the branch that originated from William Quan Judge's faction, not the branch led by Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant (which is Adyar).

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The Theosophical Society Adyar is based in Pasadena, California.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Theosophical Society Adyar is based in India, not Pasadena, California. The Pasadena branch originated from William Quan Judge's faction.

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What event directly led to the schism between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction after Helena Blavatsky's death?

Answer: Allegations that William Quan Judge had forged letters from the Mahatmas.

Explanation: The primary event leading to the schism between William Quan Judge and the Olcott-Besant faction was the allegation that Judge had forged letters purportedly from the Mahatmas.

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Which Theosophical Society branch is based in India and continued under Olcott and Besant?

Answer: The Theosophical Society - Adyar

Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar, based in India, is the branch that continued under the leadership of Henry Steel Olcott and Annie Besant after the split.

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The dispute following Helena Blavatsky's death primarily involved allegations concerning:

Answer: William Quan Judge forging letters from the Mahatmas.

Explanation: The primary dispute following Helena Blavatsky's death involved allegations that William Quan Judge had forged letters from the Mahatmas, leading to the Society's schism.

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The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is associated with which historical figure's faction after the 1895 split?

Answer: William Quan Judge

Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Pasadena is the contemporary name for the branch that originated from the faction led by William Quan Judge after the 1895 split.

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Neo-Theosophy: Definition, Development, and Key Figures

Neo-Theosophy refers to the original teachings of Helena Blavatsky as presented before her death in 1891.

Answer: False

Explanation: Neo-Theosophy refers to the system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater after Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891, not her original teachings before that date.

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The term "Neo-Theosophy" was initially coined by Helena Blavatsky herself to distinguish her later works.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was not coined by Helena Blavatsky but by Ferdinand T. Brooks in a critical context.

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Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater were the principal figures associated with developing Neo-Theosophy after Helena Blavatsky's death.

Answer: True

Explanation: Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater are the principal figures credited with expounding the system of ideas known as Neo-Theosophy following Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891.

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A key innovation of Neo-Theosophy was its reduced emphasis on exploring the astral plane compared to Blavatsky's original teachings.

Answer: False

Explanation: Neo-Theosophy, as presented by Besant and Leadbeater, placed a significant emphasis on exploring the astral plane, often through clairvoyance, which was not a reduced emphasis compared to Blavatsky's original teachings.

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Jiddu Krishnamurti was promoted within Neo-Theosophy as the expected World Teacher.

Answer: True

Explanation: Jiddu Krishnamurti was prominently promoted within Neo-Theosophy as the expected World Teacher, a central aspect of the movement's development.

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The Liberal Catholic Church was established as part of Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophical Society.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Liberal Catholic Church, with its incorporation of Catholic rituals, was an innovation introduced by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater as part of their Neo-Theosophical teachings, not part of Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophical Society.

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Followers of William Q. Judge referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society, led by Besant and Olcott, as 'Neo-Theosophy'.

Answer: True

Explanation: Followers of William Q. Judge, who considered themselves adherents to Blavatsky's original teachings, often referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society, led by Besant and Olcott, as 'Neo-Theosophy'.

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The Liberal Catholic Church was introduced as a distinct spiritual path separate from Neo-Theosophy's core tenets.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Liberal Catholic Church, with its introduction of Catholic rituals, was an innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy, developed by Besant and Leadbeater, and not a path separate from its core tenets.

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The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was initially used by Annie Besant to differentiate her teachings from Blavatsky's later writings.

Answer: False

Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was initially used critically by Ferdinand T. Brooks and later by followers of Blavatsky to distinguish her original teachings from those of Besant and Leadbeater, not by Besant herself.

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Clairvoyance was de-emphasized in Neo-Theosophy, focusing instead on intellectual study of Blavatsky's texts.

Answer: False

Explanation: Clairvoyance was emphasized in Neo-Theosophy for exploring the astral plane and past lives, not de-emphasized in favor of intellectual study alone.

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The concept of the 'World Teacher' was peripheral to Neo-Theosophy, with no specific individual promoted for this role.

Answer: False

Explanation: The concept of the 'World Teacher' was central to Neo-Theosophy, with Jiddu Krishnamurti being specifically promoted for this role.

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The Theosophical Society - Adyar is often labeled 'Neo-Theosophy' by those who follow William Q. Judge's interpretation of Blavatsky's teachings.

Answer: True

Explanation: The Theosophical Society - Adyar is often labeled 'Neo-Theosophy' by those who follow William Q. Judge's interpretation of Blavatsky's teachings, viewing it as a departure from the original.

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The astral plane, in Neo-Theosophy, was primarily explored through academic study rather than experiential practices.

Answer: False

Explanation: The astral plane was explored through experiential practices like clairvoyance in Neo-Theosophy, not solely through academic study.

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What is the primary definition of "Neo-Theosophy" according to the source?

Answer: The system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Besant and Leadbeater after Blavatsky's death.

Explanation: The primary definition of 'Neo-Theosophy' refers to the system of Theosophical ideas expounded by Annie Besant and Charles Webster Leadbeater following Helena Blavatsky's death in 1891.

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Who originally coined the term "Neo-Theosophy," and in what context?

Answer: Ferdinand T. Brooks, in a derogatory manner in his book *Neo Theosophy Exposed*.

Explanation: The term 'Neo-Theosophy' was coined by Ferdinand T. Brooks around 1912 in his book *Neo Theosophy Exposed*, using it in a derogatory manner to critique the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.

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Which of the following was NOT a primary innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy as presented by Besant and Leadbeater?

Answer: The compilation of *The Mahatma Letters* purportedly from the Masters.

Explanation: While Neo-Theosophy emphasized clairvoyance, Krishnamurti's promotion, and the Liberal Catholic Church, the compilation of *The Mahatma Letters* is associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, not a Neo-Theosophical innovation.

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According to the source, which group referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society as 'Neo-Theosophy'?

Answer: Followers of William Q. Judge

Explanation: Followers of William Q. Judge, who maintained adherence to what they considered Blavatsky's original teachings, referred to the Adyar-based Theosophical Society as 'Neo-Theosophy'.

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How did the introduction of Catholic rituals relate to Neo-Theosophy?

Answer: It was an innovation introduced by Besant and Leadbeater via the Liberal Catholic Church.

Explanation: The introduction of Catholic rituals through the Liberal Catholic Church was an innovation associated with Neo-Theosophy, developed by Besant and Leadbeater, and not part of Blavatsky's original teachings.

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Which practice was emphasized in Neo-Theosophy for exploring the astral plane and past lives?

Answer: Clairvoyance

Explanation: Clairvoyance was a practice emphasized in Neo-Theosophy, particularly by Besant and Leadbeater, for exploring the astral plane and past lives.

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The promotion of Jiddu Krishnamurti as the 'World Teacher' was a key aspect of:

Answer: Neo-Theosophy.

Explanation: The promotion of Jiddu Krishnamurti as the 'World Teacher' was a central and defining aspect of Neo-Theosophy.

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Theosophical Concepts and Literature

Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* as the fifth root race in 1990.

Answer: False

Explanation: Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* as the sixth root race in 1990, not the fifth.

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The motto displayed with the Theosophical Society emblem is "Seek Ye the Light Within".

Answer: False

Explanation: The motto displayed with the Theosophical Society emblem is 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth', not 'Seek Ye the Light Within'.

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"Seven rays" is a concept exclusively associated with Neo-Theosophy and not mentioned in relation to original Theosophy.

Answer: False

Explanation: The concept of 'Seven rays' is associated with Theosophy, including its original formulations and later developments, not exclusively with Neo-Theosophy.

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*The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett* is considered a significant text associated with Neo-Theosophy, not original Theosophy.

Answer: False

Explanation: *The Mahatma Letters to A.P. Sinnett* is considered a significant text associated with Helena Blavatsky's original Theosophy, not Neo-Theosophy.

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Kuthumi and Morya are examples of the 'Masters' referenced in Theosophical contexts.

Answer: True

Explanation: Kuthumi and Morya are prominent examples of the 'Masters' referenced in Theosophical contexts, believed to be highly evolved beings guiding humanity.

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The sidebar illustrates Theosophy's comparative aspects primarily with Eastern religions like Jainism and Sikhism.

Answer: False

Explanation: The sidebar illustrates Theosophy's comparative aspects primarily with Eastern religions like Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, not Jainism and Sikhism.

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*Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'physical man', proposed by Victor Skumin.

Answer: False

Explanation: *Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'spiritual man', proposed by Victor Skumin as the sixth root race, not 'physical man'.

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The motto "There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth" reflects Theosophy's emphasis on dogma over empirical truth.

Answer: False

Explanation: The motto 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth' reflects Theosophy's emphasis on seeking truth above dogma, not the other way around.

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'Root races' are a concept within Theosophy describing successive stages of human evolution, with *Homo spiritalis* being an example proposed by Victor Skumin.

Answer: True

Explanation: 'Root races' describe stages of human evolution in Theosophy, and Victor Skumin proposed *Homo spiritalis* ('spiritual man') as the sixth root race.

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The *Book of Dzyan* is mentioned as a foundational text for the teachings of Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater.

Answer: False

Explanation: The *Book of Dzyan* is referenced as a source text for Helena Blavatsky's *The Secret Doctrine*, not as a foundational text specifically for the teachings of Annie Besant and C.W. Leadbeater.

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'Masters' in Theosophy are considered ordinary humans who achieved enlightenment through personal effort.

Answer: False

Explanation: 'Masters' in Theosophy are considered highly evolved spiritual beings who guide humanity, not ordinary humans who achieved enlightenment through personal effort.

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The *Theosophical Glossary* was created to simplify Theosophical concepts for beginners by avoiding specialized terminology.

Answer: False

Explanation: The *Theosophical Glossary* was created to define and clarify specialized Theosophical terminology, not to simplify concepts by avoiding specialized terms.

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The *Theosophist* magazine served as a platform for disseminating Theosophical news and ideas.

Answer: True

Explanation: The *Theosophist* magazine, founded by Helena Blavatsky and Henry Steel Olcott, served as a primary platform for disseminating Theosophical news and ideas.

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The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, like the ankh and swastika, are unique to its specific doctrines.

Answer: False

Explanation: The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, are drawn from various traditions and represent Theosophy's syncretic approach, not symbols unique to its specific doctrines.

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What concept did Victor Skumin elaborate on in 1990, classifying it as the sixth root race?

Answer: Homo spiritualis

Explanation: In 1990, Victor Skumin elaborated on the concept of *Homo spiritalis*, meaning 'spiritual man,' proposing it as the sixth root race within theosophical frameworks of human evolution.

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What is the motto of the Theosophical Society?

Answer: There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth

Explanation: The motto of the Theosophical Society, displayed with its emblem, is 'There Is No Religion Higher Than Truth'.

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The sidebar lists comparative studies of Theosophy with which of the following religions?

Answer: Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism

Explanation: The sidebar illustrates comparative studies of Theosophy with Buddhism, Christianity, and Hinduism, indicating its engagement with major world religions.

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What is the meaning of the Latin term *Homo spiritalis* as proposed by Victor Skumin?

Answer: Spiritual Man

Explanation: *Homo spiritalis* is a Latin term meaning 'spiritual man,' proposed by Victor Skumin as a classification for the sixth root race.

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What do the symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, represent?

Answer: Theosophy's syncretic approach, drawing from various traditions.

Explanation: The symbols on the Theosophical Society's emblem, such as the ankh and swastika, represent Theosophy's syncretic nature, drawing from diverse spiritual and cultural traditions.

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Which of the following is listed as a significant text associated with Theosophy in the sidebar?

Answer: *The Key to Theosophy*

Explanation: *The Key to Theosophy* is listed as a significant text associated with Theosophy in the sidebar, providing an exposition of its core principles.

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According to the source, what is the primary role of the 'Masters' in Theosophical beliefs?

Answer: To guide human spiritual development and transmit wisdom.

Explanation: In Theosophical beliefs, the 'Masters' are considered highly evolved spiritual beings who guide human spiritual development and transmit wisdom.

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Academic and Critical Perspectives on Theosophy

Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* supported the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.

Answer: False

Explanation: Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* provided a critical comparison and supported the original Theosophy of Blavatsky, rather than the teachings of Besant and Leadbeater.

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G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' to praise the clairvoyant research conducted by Annie Besant.

Answer: False

Explanation: G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' critically to distinguish his understanding of Theosophy from the movement led by Annie Besant, particularly her emphasis on clairvoyant research, rather than to praise it.

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Academically, the term 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied only to direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.

Answer: False

Explanation: Academically, the term 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied more broadly to describe groups formed by former Theosophists or those heavily borrowing from Blavatsky's Theosophy, not exclusively to direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.

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Robert S. Ellwood classified Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy as a 'devolution of Theosophy'.

Answer: True

Explanation: Robert S. Ellwood, in his academic classifications, categorized Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy as a 'devolution of Theosophy,' indicating its origins and development from Theosophical ideas.

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Daryl S. Paulson was the first to use the term 'Neo-Theosophy' in relation to Alice Bailey's work.

Answer: False

Explanation: Daryl S. Paulson is noted for associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' with Alice Bailey's work, not necessarily as the first to use the term in general.

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Robert Ellwood's classification of 'devolutions of Theosophy' was synonymous with the original derogatory use of 'Neo-Theosophy'.

Answer: False

Explanation: Robert Ellwood's classification of 'devolutions of Theosophy' was an academic categorization, distinct from the initial, often derogatory, use of 'Neo-Theosophy' by Blavatsky's followers.

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What was the main purpose of Margaret Thomas's book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* published around 1924?

Answer: To provide a critical comparison between original Theosophy and Neo-Theosophy.

Explanation: Margaret Thomas's 1924 book *Theosophy Versus Neo-Theosophy* aimed to critically compare and contrast the original Theosophy of Blavatsky with the later developments termed Neo-Theosophy.

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G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' primarily to:

Answer: Distinguish his own understanding of 'Theosophy' from Besant's movement.

Explanation: G. R. S. Mead used the term 'Neo-Theosophy' primarily to differentiate his own interpretation of Theosophy, which he considered more aligned with ancient wisdom traditions, from the movement led by Annie Besant.

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How has the term 'Neo-Theosophical' been applied in broader academic contexts?

Answer: To describe groups formed by former Theosophists or heavily borrowing from Blavatsky's Theosophy.

Explanation: In broader academic contexts, 'Neo-Theosophical' has been applied to describe various groups that emerged from or were significantly influenced by Blavatsky's Theosophy, encompassing more than just direct successors of Besant and Leadbeater.

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Robert S. Ellwood classified movements like Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy and Alice Bailey's groups under which category?

Answer: Devolutions of Theosophy

Explanation: Robert S. Ellwood classified movements like Rudolf Steiner's Anthroposophy and Alice Bailey's groups under the academic category of 'devolutions of Theosophy' in his studies of modern religious movements.

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Which author is noted for associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' specifically with the work of Alice Bailey?

Answer: Daryl S. Paulson

Explanation: Daryl S. Paulson is the author noted for specifically associating the term 'Neo-Theosophy' with the work of Alice Bailey.

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Structure and Navigation of Theosophical Resources

The 'Theosophy' navbox is designed to provide links to foundational texts, key figures, and related concepts.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 'Theosophy' navbox is designed as a navigational tool to connect users with a wide range of related topics, including foundational texts, key figures, and core concepts within Theosophy.

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What is the stated purpose of the 'Theosophy' navbox?

Answer: To serve as a navigational aid linking related topics and information.

Explanation: The 'Theosophy' navbox is designed as a navigational tool to connect users with a wide range of related topics, including foundational texts, key figures, and core concepts within Theosophy.

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