deism

(noun)

A theological/philosophical position that combines the rejection of revelation and authority as a source of religious knowledge with the conclusion that reason and observation of the natural world are sufficient to determine the existence of a single creator of the universe.

Related Terms

Examples of deism in the following topics:

  • Voltaire

    • At the same time, he espouses deism, tolerance, and freedom of the press.

  • Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety

    • In June 1794, Robespierre, who favored deism over atheism, and had previously condemned the Cult of Reason, recommended that the convention acknowledge the existence of his god.

  • Introduction to the Enlightenment

    • A number of novel ideas developed, including Deism (belief in God the Creator, with no reference to the Bible or any other source) and atheism.

  • Enlightenment Ideals

    • A number of novel ideas developed, including Deism (belief in God the Creator, with no reference to the Bible or any other source) and atheism.