Deism

 Deism is a philosophical and religious perspective that emerged during the Enlightenment in the 17th and 18th centuries. Deists believe in the existence of a higher power or a supreme being, often referred to as the "Divine Watchmaker" or "Creator," who created the universe and established natural laws but does not intervene in human affairs through miracles or revelations. Deists emphasize the use of reason and observation of the natural world as a means of understanding the existence of God.

Key principles of Deism include:

1. **Existence of God:** Deists affirm the existence of a deity based on reason, nature, and personal observation. They often argue that the complexity and orderliness of the universe are evidence of a deliberate Creator.

2. **Natural Religion:** Deism promotes the idea of "natural religion" or "natural theology." This means that religious truths can be discovered through reason and the study of the natural world, without relying on specific revealed scriptures or organized religious institutions.

3. **Rejecting Revelation:** Deists typically reject the concept of divine revelation. They do not believe that God communicates directly with humanity through sacred texts, prophets, or miracles. Instead, they believe that God's presence is evident in the natural order.

4. **Emphasis on Morality:** While beliefs may vary among individual deists, many emphasize moral and ethical behavior based on reason and compassion. Deists often argue that a virtuous and ethical life is a key aspect of living in accordance with the divine order.

Prominent figures associated with Deism include Enlightenment thinkers such as Thomas Paine, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. It's important to note that while Deism shares some common principles, there can be variations in individual beliefs and practices among those who identify as deists. Additionally, the popularity of Deism waned over time, and it is not as widely practiced or discussed today as it was during the Enlightenment era.