Category:Deism

 Definitions: 

According to the OED, 'deism' is:

"belief in the existence of a Supreme Being as the source of finite existence, with rejection of revelation and the supernatural doctrines of Christianity; ‘natural religion’."

However, deism can also be used simply to indicate belief in a God who does not interfere directly in the world.

'Deism' should be distinguished from 'theism', which can be used to mean the same thing as deism, but is usually used to indicate:

"Belief in one God as creator and supreme ruler of the universe, without denial of revelation. "

 Historical Overview 

Deism gained prominence among intellectuals during the Age of Enlightenment, especially in Britain, France, Germany, and the United States. Typically, these had been raised as Christians and believed in one God, but they had become disenchanted with organized religion and orthodox teachings such as the Trinity, Biblical inerrancy, and the supernatural interpretation of events, such as miracles.Included in those influenced by its ideas were leaders of the American and French Revolutions (thanks Wikipedia).