Voltairianism
- noun
- /voʊlˈtɛəriənɪzəm/
- Formal
- Her essay embraced Voltairianism, emphasizing rational thought and a commitment to freedom of expression.
Examples
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The spirit of Voltairianism inspired reforms against religious intolerance in the 18th century.
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Some critics argue that Voltairianism remains relevant in debates on secularism and free speech.
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Her essay embraced Voltairianism, emphasizing rational thought and freedom of expression.
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Many philosophers admire Voltairianism for its emphasis on reason.
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His Voltairianism shaped his views on freedom of speech.
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Some critics argue that Voltairianism is particularly significant in discussions surrounding secularism and free speech.
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The spirit of Voltairianism played a crucial role in inspiring reforms against religious intolerance during the 18th century.
How Skeptical
Surface Forms
Morphology
Voltairianism = Voltairian (transparent) = Voltaire + ian + ism
Built from the adjective 'Voltairian' (relating to Voltaire) plus the productive '-ism' meaning a doctrine or movement, so the doctrine-of-Voltaire reading is directly derived.
Etymology
Voltairianism comes from the name Voltaire, a famous French writer who used reason, fought against religious intolerance, and believed in a 'distant God'. The ending -ism means 'belief or system', as in feminism, so Voltairianism refers to the set of ideas from Voltaire: questioning and doubt, belief in a 'distant God', and a strong wish for free speech and tolerance.