Deism

Deism is belief in a creator whose existence can be inferred from reason and nature, but who does not intervene through miracles or revelation.

Natural theology: The study of God through reason and observation of the natural world rather than revealed doctrine. Deism treats nature as evidence for a creator without relying on scripture.
Lord Herbert of Cherbury: An English philosopher whose writings set out a rational account of universal religious principles. His works helped establish the intellectual foundations associated with English deism.
Theism: Belief in the existence of at least one deity. Deism is a form of theism, but it denies the intervention often affirmed by theistic traditions.
Religious toleration: The allowance of differing religious beliefs and practices within a society or state. Deists often argued that shared natural religion could reduce sectarian conflict.
Enlightenment: An intellectual movement emphasizing reason, criticism of inherited authority, and the improvement of society. Deist arguments gained prominence amid Enlightenment challenges to religious authority.
Edward Herbert's De Veritate: A 1624 philosophical work by Edward Herbert of Cherbury on truth, knowledge, and religious principles. It presents an early systematic account of religious knowledge accessible to reason.
Christian theism: Belief in the Christian God, including the doctrines and acts of God described in Christian tradition. Many forms affirm revelation and divine action that deism rejects.
Separation of church and state: The principle that religious institutions and government should remain institutionally distinct. Deist skepticism toward clerical authority supported arguments against established religious power.
Deity: A supernatural being regarded as divine, especially one understood as a god. Deism asserts a creator while rejecting ongoing divine intervention.
John Toland: An Irish-born philosopher whose writings criticized religious mysteries and defended rational religion. His arguments made deist criticism of revealed Christianity especially visible.

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