International Rationalist Conference - A Grand Success

The Third International Rationalist Conference was successfully held at the Gandhi Peace Foundation at New Delhi, India from 8 to 12 February 2002. Delegates from different parts of the world representing major rationalist - humanist - skeptic organisations as well as representatives of the state units of Indian Rationalist Association and other regional rationalist groups attended the conference. During the conference, Sanal Edamaruku, president of Rationalist International, outlined his vision about the future of the world rationalist movement.

Jan Loeb Eisler inaugurates the Third International Rationalist Conference

Prof. Lewis Wolpert addressing the Third International Rationalist Conference

Sanal Edamaruku outlines his vision about the future of the world rationalist movement

The Third International Rationalist Conference was inaugurated by Jan Loeb Eisler, board member of the Council for Secular Humanism (CSH) and Vice President of International Huminist and Ethical Union (IHEU). The distinguished speakers included Prof. Lewis Wolpert, Jim Herrick, Richard Lead, Dr Bill Cooke, Joseph Edamaruku, Prof. Ajoy Roy, Dr C Raja Mohan, Iain Middleton, V K Madhavan Kutty, Richard Saunders, Prof. Omcherry N N Pillai etc. The theme of the conference was Creative Rationalism and focus on the potential of rationalism to influence social change and transform traditional societies. Reason, equipped with knowledge and moved by compassion, is the most suitable instance to analyze the problems of our times and to create solutions, which can make the earth a better place for all its inhabitants. Unfolding its creative potential, Rationalism does not limit itself to correction and reform of the existing situations. It has a tendency of developing new structures and to visualise the rebuilding of the world based on the values of civilization. This needs imagination, confidence and responsibility. And it needs courage, determination and will to succeed. The Third International Rationalist Conference unfolded a meaningful discussion in this direction.

The Conference is the third of its kind. Rationalist International, associating the most prominent rationalist thinkers of our times, was founded during the First International Rationalist Conference in December 1995 held at New Delhi. Sanal Edamaruku, Secretary General of Indian Rationalist Association is the founder- president. As a forum for rationalist ideas and positions of world-wide concern, it aims at representing the rationalist view where public opinion is formed and making the voice of reason heard and considered, where decisions are taken which will shape our future. In January 2000, the Second International Rationalist Conference was held at Trivandrum, Kerala, opening the discussion about the Rationalist Agenda for the new century.

Rationalist International links rationalists all around the world, co-ordinates rationalist activities in different countries and has an internet based publication in English, Spanish and German.