Deism: Mainstream Christianity During The Age Of Enlightenment

During the Age of Enlightenment, reason became the basis for any and all faiths. Mainstream Christianity faced harsh biblical criticism, and the entire religion experienced an age of turmoil. Amidst the upheaval and refutation of Christianity, Deism emerged as an alternative to orthodox faith; a philosophical, religious approach “based entirely on reason, without any reference to faith, revelation, or institutional religion (Kemerling).” Deism soon became one of the most prominent philosophies, shaping parts of the world into their modern states. Whether God, Allah, Jehovah or Brahman, each represents a single superior power in the universe. Deism is no different in regards to a superior being, a belief that has stood the test of time is
Biblical criticism casted doubt upon the divinity of Christianity and “Christians sought to reposition their faith along rational lines (“Enlightenment”).” The beginning of Deism began in the same century, “its main principles are to be found in the writings of Lord Herbert of Cherbury (“English Deism”).” This lord outlined the original articles of the philosophy, advocating for natural religion. “Voltaire (d. 1778) embraced the conception of natural religion (“French Deism”)” and the philosophy spread into France through Voltaire’s philosophy and advocation. Charles Blout, “noted as a critic of both the Old and New Testaments (Knight),” attacked Christianity and inspired a religious piety based entirely upon Deism and its rational approach. The popularity of Deism began to grow, spreading deeper into England and France; the philosophy also gained attention from important philosophers. John Toland, “originally a believer in Divine revelation (Kinght),” “advanced to the rationalistic position (Knight)”; his acceptance inspired a great deal of conversions to Deistic ideals. The churches of England and France revolted against the Deism reform, yet Anthony Collins “asserted the right of human reason to examine and interpret revelation (Knight).” Collins believed man should be able to look at the bible and interpret it in a personal way, even if it lead away from the church. While many renowned philosophers promoted the growth of Deism, the most influential remains to be John Locke. Locke’s true beliefs have been questioned for centuries-due to his supernatural beliefs-but in his writings, he maintained “that