The International Cultic Studies Association (ICSA) is an
interdisciplinary network of academicians, professionals, former group
members, and families who study and educate the public about
social-psychological influence and control, authoritarianism, and zealotry
in cultic groups, alternative movements, and other environments. Founded in
1979 as AFF (American Family Foundation), ICSA took on its current name in
late 2004 to better reflect the organization's focus and increasingly
international and scholarly dimensions. ICSA is guided by a distinguished
Board of Directors and
Executive Advisory Board.
ICSA believes that the issues it studies are complex and
multidisciplinary and, consequently, demand an openness to the expression
and consideration of diverse viewpoints. ICSA rarely takes a formal
position on specific issues, preferring to encourage people who contribute
to ICSA's boards, committees, conferences, publications, or other research
and educational activities to articulate individual opinions, which
colleagues and others may comment upon. ICSA believes that such dialogue is
a vital part of the pursuit of truth.
