Deism vs. Atheism

Deism vs. Atheism — Is There a Difference?
ADVERTISEMENT

Difference Between Deism and Atheism

Deismnoun

A philosophical belief in the existence of a god (or goddess) knowable through human reason; especially, a belief in a creator god unaccompanied by any belief in supernatural phenomena or specific religious doctrines.

Atheismnoun

(narrowly) Belief that no deities exist (sometimes including rejection of other religious beliefs).

Deismnoun

Belief in a god who does not intervene with existence.

Atheismnoun

(broadly) Rejection of belief that any deities exist (with or without a belief that no deities exist).

Deismnoun

the form of theological rationalism that believes in God on the basis of reason without reference to revelation

Atheismnoun

(very broadly) Absence of belief that any deities exist (including absence of the concept of deities).

ADVERTISEMENT

Atheismnoun

(historical) Absence of belief in a particular deity, pantheon, or religious doctrine (notwithstanding belief in other deities).

Atheismnoun

the doctrine or belief that there is no God

Atheismnoun

a lack of belief in the existence of God or gods