Become a TFOSian

THE TFOSIAN AGREEMENT

Fellowship is open to individuals who value science and reason, are capable of understanding and voluntarily making the commitment described below, and sincerely wish to participate in our science-based, non-theistic religion. You do not need to be a scientist, hold an academic degree, or possess any particular professional experience or title. Members of The Fellowship of Science are called TFOSian.

TFOS does not charge an application fee or membership fee. Prospective TFOSian are strongly encouraged to read The Book of Science by Nick Afanasiev in its entirety before requesting admission. As the foundational and guiding text of TFOS, the book explains the religion’s beliefs, Guiding Principles, Threats to Thriving, rituals, practices, and expectations. Reading it can help you decide whether Fellowship is right for you and whether you can sincerely make the commitment below. A personal copy is available for purchase through Amazon.com, but purchasing the book is not a condition of admission.

To request admission as a TFOSian:

  • Read A Statement of Intention and Good-Faith Commitment
  • Complete the form beneath the statement with accurate information.
  • Submit your request to The Fellowship of Science for review.

Each request will be reviewed individually. TFOS may approve it, decline it, or contact you for clarification or additional information. Submitting the form does not automatically make you a TFOSian. You will become a TFOSian only after your request has been approved and you have received confirmation of your admission from TFOS.

A Statement of Intention and Good-Faith Commitment

I, the individual whose name appears in the form below, freely request admission as a TFOSian of The Fellowship of Science. I understand that submitting this request does not by itself make me a TFOSian. I will become a TFOSian only if my request is approved and I receive confirmation of my admission from The Fellowship of Science.

I understand that The Fellowship of Science is a science-grounded, non-theistic religion devoted to reducing suffering and advancing individual and collective thriving.

If admitted, I intend to make a sincere, good-faith effort to live in accordance with the Guiding Principles presented in The Book of Science and to recognize, resist, and reduce the Threats to Thriving wherever reasonably possible.

I will strive to align my beliefs with the best available credible evidence, to revise my views when better evidence warrants doing so, and to approach uncertain claims with skepticism, openness, and intellectual humility.

I make this request voluntarily and without coercion. If admitted, I will participate as an equal TFOSian among TFOSian. When I am reasonably able, I intend to take part in the Weekly Gatherings, traditions, rituals, and community life of The Fellowship of Science. I will engage with other TFOSian  and the wider public with sincerity, integrity, and respect.

This request is an expression of sincere intention, not a claim of perfection. It does not mean that I already know everything, never make mistakes, or will always live flawlessly by the principles and standards of The Fellowship of Science.

TFOSIAN APPLICATION FORM

Field marked with a * are required.