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1. Nontheist (100%)
2. Secular Humanism (100%)
3. Unitarian Universalism (86%)
Nontheist
Nontheists include atheists, agnostics and others. Atheists' beliefs are similar to those of the Humanists, but do not necessarily include the emphasis on humanity's ability to improve the human condition. Views on contemporary issues vary widely. Agnostics are inclined to question the existence of supernatural being(s) or a force, e.g. the answer to whether or not God (or Deity) exists would be: "We do not and/or cannot know."
Secular Humanism
Belief in Deity: Not considered important. Most Humanists are atheists or agnostics.
Incarnations: Same as above.
Origins of universe/life: The scientific method is most respected as the means for revealing the mysteries of the origins of the universe and life.
After death: An afterlife or spiritual existence after death is not recognized.
Why evil? No concept of evil. Reasons for wrongdoing are explored through scientific methods, e.g. through study of sociology, psychology, criminology, etc.
Salvation: No concept of afterlife or spiritual liberation or salvation. Realizing ones personal potential and working for the betterment of humanity through ethical consciousness and social works are considered paramount, but from a naturalistic rather than supernatural standpoint.
Undeserved suffering: No spiritual reasons, but rather a matter of human vulnerability to misfortune, illness, and victimization.
Contemporary Issues: The American Humanist Association endorses elective abortion. Other contemporary views include working for equality for homosexuals, gender equality, a secular approach to divorce and remarriage, working to end poverty, promoting peace and non-violence, and environmental protection.
Unitarian Universalism
A liberal and diverse religious organization comprised of mostly atheists (or non-theists), agnostics, Humanists, liberal Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus, Neopagans, etc.
Belief in Deity: Very diverse beliefs - Unitarian Universalists welcome all deity beliefs as well as nontheistic beliefs. Some congregations are formed for those who share a common belief, e.g. Christianity.
Incarnations: Very diverse beliefs, including belief in no incarnations, or that all are the embodiment of God. Some believe Christ is God's Son, or not Son but "Wayshower."
Origins of universe/life: Diverse beliefs, but most believe in the Bible as symbolic and that natural processes account for origins.
After death: Diverse beliefs, but most believe that heaven and hell are not places, but are symbolic. Some believe heaven and hell are states of consciousness either in life or continuing after death; some believe in reincarnation; some believe that afterlife is nonexistent or not known or not important, as actions in life are all that matter.
Why evil? Diverse beliefs. Some believe wrong is committed when people distance themselves from God. Some believe in karma, that what goes around comes around. Some believe wrongdoing is a matter of human nature, psychology, sociology, etc.
Salvation: Some believe in salvation through faith in God and Jesus Christ, along with doing good works and doing no harm to others. Many believe all will be saved, as God is good and forgiving. Some believe in reincarnation and the necessity to eliminate personal greed or to learn all of lifes lessons before achieving enlightenment or salvation. For some, the concepts of salvation or enlightenment are irrelevant or disbelieved.
Undeserved suffering: Diverse beliefs. It would be a rare Unitarian Universalists that believes that a literal Satan causes suffering. Some believe suffering is part of Gods plan, will, or design even if we dont immediately understand it. Some dont believe in any spiritual reasons for suffering, and most take a humanistic approach to helping those in need.
Contemporary Issues: The Unitarian Universalist Associations stance is to protect the personal right to choose abortion. Other contemporary views include working for equality for homosexuals, gender equality, a secular approach to divorce and remarriage, working to end poverty, promoting peace and non-violence, and environmental protection.
 
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Last edited by User Name # 1; 2002-05-18 at 02:49 PM.
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