1. Deism A presentation by Andrew Tavin

2. Some quick facts to begin Deism is a philosophical position which emerged during the Enlightenment Deism is derived from the Latin word Deus, meaning G-d Many Deists were born Christians who could not believe all of their faith Deism consists of both Critical and Constructive parts

4. The Critical Part The Critical Part of Deism consists of the rejection of all “revealed religions”, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, which are dependent on a revelation from G-d.

5. Critical Part, Part 2 Deism also rejects the occurrence of miracles as well as the doctrine of Original Sin and all other similar beliefs.

6. The Constructive Part G-d gave men reason which they use to gain knowledge from the world around them. Additionally, G-d created the universe, and wants human beings to act morally. After they die, there is an after- life.

7. So, essentially… Deists believe that G-d created the world and may even maintain it, but that he does not have any interaction in the day to day workings of man.

8. G-d as the clockmaker A common metaphor for the Deist G-d

9. Some historical context Although Deism became popular during the Enlightenment, its roots came much earlier. Early philosophers, such as Plato, had espoused the idea of G-d as the craftsman, or “Demiurge”.

11. Lord Herbert-Father of Deism British, Founded Early Deism with his work De Veritate

12. Voltaire-Enlightenment Writer

13. Maximillian Robespierre Leader of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution

14. Thomas Jefferson-American Pres

15. Benjamin Franklin