Deists Meaning and Definition
Deists
Pronunciation
/ˈdiːɪsts/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A person who believes in the existence of God, but denies that God intervenes in human affairs.
Examples
- The philosopher was a deist, believing in a creator who did not influence human events.
- Deists argue that God created the universe but does not intervene in human affairs.
Synonyms
- Theist
- Rationalist
Antonyms
- Atheist
- Agnostic
Additional Information
Deism views God as a creator who does not intervene in human affairs, allowing humans to have free will. Deists believe that God’s existence can be proven through reason and observation of the natural world. They also reject the idea of divine intervention in human affairs, such as miracles.
Deism was popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly among European intellectuals. It influenced the development of modern Western philosophy and the Enlightenment.
Etymology
The term “deist” comes from the French word “déiste”, which originated from the Latin “deus”, meaning “god”.
Usage Notes
Deism is often used to describe a philosophical and religious movement that emerged in Europe during the Enlightenment. It is also used to describe individuals who hold a similar belief system.
Cultural References
Deism has been referenced in various literary and philosophical works, including those by Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Thomas Paine.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Deist’s dilemma”, a phrase used to describe the problem of reconciling God’s existence with human suffering.
Related Words or Phrases
- Theism
- Agnosticism
Collocations
- Deist philosophy
- Deist movement
Frequency of Use
Deism is a relatively uncommon term, but it is used in academic and philosophical discussions.
Common Misspellings
- Deism
- Diest