The Book of Science
A Foundational Guide to a Science-Based, Non-Theistic Religion
By Nick Afanasiev
The Book of Science (TBOS) is the foundational and guiding text of The Fellowship of Science (TFOS). It presents a serious, research-grounded framework for individuals seeking a science-based religious path without being required to believe in deities, divine revelation, or unsupported supernatural claims.
Written for TFOSian, prospective TFOSian, and other curious readers, TBOS brings together scientific education, practical guidance, religious practice, and reflective literature in a single volume.
WHY THE BOOK WAS WRITTEN
Many individuals value the community, ethical guidance, rituals, comfort, reflection, and sense of purpose that religions can provide but cannot accept supernatural authority, unquestionable dogma, or restrictions on questioning and reasoning. The Book of Science was written to establish the intellectual and practical foundation for a religion created with those individuals in mind.
TFOS seeks to provide valuable religious functions while grounding its teachings and practices in scientific evidence, reason, critical reflection, and open inquiry. It proceeds from the conviction that removing supernatural claims does not make reality less meaningful. Instead, it allows us to direct greater attention toward the reality we know we inhabit and the lives affected by our choices.
WHAT YOU WILL FIND INSIDE
Drawing on more than 2,250 cited sources—including peer-reviewed scientific publications and historical references—The Book of Science explores a wide range of subjects across nineteen chapters. These include:
- The science-informed account of the emergence of our universe and the history, methods, and fundamentals of science
- The Guiding Principles of TFOS
- Threats to Thriving
- Science-informed perspectives on health, the body, the mind, behavior, and suffering
- The science behind good and “evil”
- Research-informed traditions, rituals, meditative practices, and mantras
- Dispellation of common myths and correction of common misconceptions
- Science-themed parables, stories, and poetry
- Discussions on mortality, grief, the future, and the choices that may shape what comes next
FROM KNOWLEDGE TO PRACTICE
The Book of Science does more than describe scientific findings or explain religious ideas. It provides rituals, practices, reflections, stories, and practical guidance intended to help readers translate knowledge and reflection into choices and behaviors that promote flourishing and reduce avoidable harm.
Its research-informed practices are intended to support physical and mental health, self-regulation, compassion, social connection, curiosity, awe, and honest engagement with suffering and mortality. In this way, TBOS serves not only as an explanation of TFOS but also as a guide for putting its religious path into practice.
FOR THOSE CONSIDERING BECOMING A TFOSian
Anyone may read The Book of Science, whether or not they intend to become a TFOSian. Individuals considering becoming TFOSian, however, are strongly encouraged to obtain a copy and read it in its entirety before submitting a Request to Become a TFOSian.
Reading TBOS first allows prospective TFOSian to understand the religion’s beliefs, purposes, Guiding Principles, rituals, practices, and expectations before deciding whether the TFOS path is right for them.
BEGIN WITH THE BOOK
The Book of Science is available for purchase on Amazon.com. Begin exploring the foundational ideas and practices of The Fellowship of Science today.
