Definition Deism
Deism is a belief system that posits the existence of a single, transcendent deity who created the universe but does not interfere with its operation or the affairs of humanity. Deists believe that God set the natural laws in motion and then withdrew from direct involvement, allowing the universe to function according to these established principles.
Key characteristics of deism include:
- Creator God: Deists affirm the existence of a rational, intelligent designer who created the universe.
- Non-intervention: After creating the universe, God does not interfere with its functioning or intervene in human affairs, miracles, or revelations.
- Natural Laws: The universe operates according to natural laws established by God, which can be discovered and understood through reason and observation.
- Rationality: Deists emphasize the use of reason, science, and empirical evidence to understand the world and the divine, rejecting supernatural events and religious dogma.
- Moral Order: While deists believe in a moral order inherent in the natural world, they often reject the need for organized religion and religious texts as sources of moral guidance.
Deism was particularly influential during the Enlightenment, attracting thinkers who sought a rational alternative to traditional religious beliefs. It provides a framework for understanding the universe that acknowledges a creator while emphasizing human reason and the autonomy of the natural world.