Agnostic Meaning and Definition
Agnostic
Pronunciation
/ˈæɡnɒstɪk/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
A person who believes that knowledge or certainty about the existence or non-existence of a deity or ultimate reality is impossible or uncertain, and who may also express doubt or uncertainty about other religious or philosophical matters.
Examples
1. “He identified as agnostic, unsure about the existence of a higher power.”
2. “She said she was an agnostic, open to exploring different spiritual perspectives.”
Synonyms
1. Non-theist
2. Irreligious
Antonyms
1. Theist
2. Believer
Additional Information
Agnostics often approach religious or philosophical discussions with a critical and open-minded perspective, recognizing the complexity and uncertainty of such matters. They may also be skeptical of dogmatic or absolute claims, and prefer to rely on evidence-based reasoning and personal experience.
Agnosticism can be seen as a liberal or moderate approach to spirituality, falling somewhere between atheism and theism on the spectrum of beliefs. It can also be viewed as a means of acknowledging the limit of human knowledge and the potential for spiritual or philosophical exploration to continue beyond one’s current understanding.
In some cultures or societies, agnosticism is not as commonly recognized or accepted as other forms of spirituality, and individuals may face stigma or criticism for identifying as agnostic. However, in many Western societies, agnosticism has become a more mainstream and accepted worldview, and individuals may feel more comfortable expressing their agnostic views without fear of reprisal.
Etymology
The word “agnostic” comes from the Greek words “agnos” (agnos), meaning “not knowing” or “ignorance”, and the suffix “-tic”, which forms an adjective.
The term was first coined in the 19th century by Thomas Henry Huxley, an English biologist and philosopher, to describe the uncertainty and doubt that he felt about the existence of a higher power or ultimate reality.
Usage Notes
When using the word “agnostic” in conversation or writing, it’s essential to be aware of the subtleties of language and tone.
Some individuals may interpret the term as synonymous with “atheist”, but others may view it as a more nuanced or complex expression of uncertainty or doubt.
In order to convey a more accurate and respectful meaning, consider using phrases like “identifying as agnostic” or “being open to the possibility of the unknown”, which can help to convey a more accurate sense of one’s beliefs and values.
Cultural References
Agnosticism has appeared in various forms of media, literature, and popular culture.
In science fiction, the character Data from Star Trek: The Next Generation was often described as agnostic, highlighting the importance of exploration and the pursuit of knowledge in a seemingly indifferent universe.
Many musicians, writers, and artists have explored agnosticism as a central theme or theme, using their work as a means of questioning or expressing uncertainty about the existence or meaning of the world.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A few common idioms and phrases related to the term “agnostic” include:
- Open to possibilities
- Doubting everything
- Averse to making commitments
Collocations
Some common word combinations with the term “agnostic” include:
- Knowledge
- Belief
- Doubt
- Certainty
Frequency of Use
The term “agnostic” is used relatively frequently in modern language, particularly in academic, intellectual, and cultural contexts.
According to the Oxford English Corpus, the term has experienced a rise in usage since the 1990s, indicating a growing awareness and acceptance of agnosticism as a valid worldview.
Common Misspellings
Some common misspellings or variations of the term “agnostic” include:
- Agonsitic
- Agnosticall
- Agnostik