Biosophical Institute
Founded in the 1940s by Dr. Frederick Kettner to promote
his system of biosophy. He defined biosophy (from the words
bios, meaning life, and sophia, meaning intelligence) as the science
and art of intelligent living based on the awareness and
practice of spiritual values, ethical-social principles and character
qualities essential to individual freedom and social harmony.
In his booklet, The Need for a Thousand Year Plan (1948),
Kettner acknowledged the part played by the human mind in
creating civilization but stated, Humanitys next problem is to
realize the creativity of the heart of man. Through biosophy
he hoped to create a world-fellowship of peace-loving men and
women who have overcome religious, national, racial, and social
prejudices and who would work creatively for the growth
of democracy and world peace.
Biosophy groups were founded in various U.S. cities and in
South and Central America, Europe, Australia, and India. Kettner
counted Albert Einstein, Pierre leComte du Nouy, Havelock
Ellis, and Lal Sharma among his supporters. No sign of institute
activity has been observed in recent years.
