About CSER

The Committee for the Scientific Examination of Religion (CSER) is a research division of the Center for Inquiry. Since its 1983 founding in Washington, DC, the Committee has worked to encourage humanistic, critical and non-parochial approaches to the study of religious traditions and institutions and to develop programs that promote the public understanding of religion in an international context.

CSER is an international research and educational consultation comprised of members (appointed fellows) who are nominated by an executive board. The current chair of CSER is Dr. R. Joseph Hoffmann, who succeeded Dr. Gerald Larue in January 2004.

CSER examines the claims of Eastern and Western religions and of well-established and newer sects and denominations in the light of scientific inquiry. The committee is interdisciplinary and includes specialists in Biblical and Qur'anic studies, the history of religion, archaeology, linguistics, anthropology, the social sciences, and philosophy. Its fellows and consultants represent a variety of secular and religious traditions. While its perspective is broadly humanistic, the Committee values the academic contributions of critical scholarship regardless of orientation. Its motto, from Seneca, "Ignis aurum probat" ("Fire proves gold") suggests the importance assigned to critical method and scholarly debate in its activities.

CSER activities include the following:

  • The sponsorship of conferences and seminars at university sites in the United States and abroad.
  • Short courses and seminars held in conjunction with the Center for Inquiry or its affiliated organizations.
  • The publication of classic works of religious studies scholarship and newer titles in the critical study of religion, in cooperation with Prometheus Books.
  • Publication of CAESAR: A Journal of Religion and Human Values, (“Publication of CAESAR: A Journal of Religion and Human Values] formerly the CSER Review. 

The mission statement of CSER provides information about its guiding principles and commitments and a summary of its history.

While membership in CSER is reserved for those having the status of Fellow of the Committee, it is possible to become an Associate of the Committee. The Associate Membership fee of $40.00 includes a subscription to CAESAR and a 20% discount to all national events sponsored by the Committee for the Scientific Examination of Religion.

Please direct questions regarding the Committee for the Scientific Examination of Religion and CAESAR: A Journal of Religion and Human Values to:

CSER
Center for Inquiry
P.O. Box 741
Amherst, NY 14226
(716) 636-4869
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