- Prof. Sudesh Kumar
The Copenhagen Centre for the Study of Theosophy and Esotericism (CCSTE) is an academic center within the Department of Cross-Cultural and Regional Studies (ToRS) at the University of Copenhagen. The CCSTE is dedicated to advancing scholarly research into esoteric traditions, with a particular focus on modern Theosophy and its global influence.
By integrating the study of esotericism into the broader humanities and cross-cultural studies, the CCSTE fosters a deeper understanding of how esoteric ideas have shaped intellectual, artistic, and spiritual developments across Europe and worldwide. The center’s research addresses both historical developments and contemporary issues, including the role of spirituality in modern society and the interaction between esotericism, technology, and ecological thought.
The CCSTE is part of an active international network of scholars and institutions dedicated to the academic study of esotericism. It collaborates with organizations such as the European Society for the Study of Western Esotericism (ESSWE) and the Centre for Contemporary Buddhist Studies (CCBS), and regularly participates in international conferences and publications. The center organizes academic events, including lectures, seminars, and workshops. Notably, it will host the conference “Altered States of Consciousness in Theosophy and Related Esoteric Currents” on October 11–12, 2025.
The CCSTE’s research agenda covers a wide range of topics, including:
1) Modern Theosophy and Helena Petrovna Blavatsky:
The CCSTE focuses on the study of Blavatsky's (1831–1891) life, her writings, and the Theosophical movement, which played a key role in introducing Eastern philosophies to the West and promoting intercultural dialogue.
2) Global Spirituality and Nature:
The CCSTE’s research examines the connections between spirituality, humanity, and the natural world, addressing contemporary questions about modern spirituality and global trends.
3) Esoteric Christianity and Other Traditions:
The CCSTE places special emphasis on the study of esoteric strands within Christianity and other religious traditions, as well as their influence on modern culture and technology.
Funding and Support -
The CCSTE has been financially supported by the Blavatsky Trust, a UK-based charity that promotes education and research into Theosophy and related subjects. The Blavatsky Trust also funds postgraduate research at other universities, the European School of Theosophy, and the Theosophical History Conference.
