Veritism
A Definition A socio-philosophical ideology advocating that man has been presented with no conclusive evidence lending credence to the existence of a specific deity, or supreme entity and thus has no justification for reaching any kind of sequitur on the nature of such a being other than that (as represented by humanities current state) it is indeed a benign creature.
Veritism and History Veritism would purport that man has been engaged in an unfruitful search for truth since his creation. “Humanity has spent a large part of it’s history searching for the answers to fundamental questions concerning existence and purpose. The only conclusion we have reached thus far is that these questions will not be answered until our personal existence ceases”. (Nick Harrison) Veritism also emphasizes that some, not having found truth, or lacking direction in their own lives, have rejected the existence of absolute truth. (Thus assuming atheistic, nihilistic ideologies). History is a crucial aspect in Veritism, as most of Veritistic theory rests upon the conclusion that truth must be revealed unto humanity by an external means. The past lends credence to this conclusion, as throughout human history multiple theories and ideologies have been discarded. Essentially, philosophy is a dynamic subject, constantly in a state of change: conclusions are eternally tested, challenged and discarded only to be quickly and efficiently replaced by those seemingly more plausible.
Veritism and Ultimate Truth Veritism suggests that humanity may only theorize upon non-observable studies. Man can draw conclusions concerning solid, physical sciences such as mathematics, science or chemistry. But he cannot claim he has undeniably and irrefutably answered questions relative to philosophy. Thus the only logical absolute concerning objective philosophical truth from an internal means is that it simply does not exist. Yet many discard this statement, saying that it denies its own antecedent (one claims an absolute when he denies the existence of absolute truth). Yet upon examination of this particular antecedent we find that it is specific to a certain kind of truth, and thus claims only that truths asserted from a certain medium cannot be conclusive. As an example, any type of personal revelation or "vision" cannot be deemed as legitimate, as there is ultimately no way to prove that it was of divine cause or of personal accord. In Veritism the question becomes "what is the nature of truths presented?", "what is their claim?" and "is that claim plausible?"
Veritism and Religion Veritism dismisses organized religion or any claim to ultimate truth as ignorant and without grounds. “Man attributes ultimate truth to various religions. The vast majority of these being antiquated belief systems designed to fill man with fear at the possibility of a negative afterlife.” (Quote by Nick Harrison)
Veritism and Reality A veritistic view of reality is rather basic. That which can be perceived by the five senses is that which exists.
Veritism and Ethics Veretistic ethics would advocate that humans have an inherit view of that which is right or wrong. This is demonstrated in law and government. The only humans lacking any type of self morals, or ethical inclination are those with a mental or psychological dysfunction. Veritism consequently suggests that there are numerous cultural factors which influence behavior concerning ethics, sometimes in a negative light. Veritistic thinking also attributes action to negative consequence. Christians may go to church simply because they fear a negative afterlife. Those who are truly moral, ethical people are those who do good with no ultimate reward, simply because it is the right thing to do.
References
- Kierkegaard on the Internet: Anonymity vs. Commitment in the Present Age, Hubert Dreyfus, 2004.
- Nietzsche: Nihilism (Volume IV), Martin Heidegger, Harper & Row, San Francisco, CA, 1982.