Agnosticism

Noun

Definition: The doctrine or belief that the existence of God or a higher power is unknown or unknowable.

Synonyms: Skepticism, Doubt, Uncertainty

Antonyms: Belief, Faith, Certainty

Examples:

John's agnosticism led him to question the existence of a higher power.
Agnosticism allows individuals to maintain skepticism about religious claims.

Mnemonics:

"A-gnosticism" - The 'a' in front can be seen as 'without' or 'lacking knowledge'.
"Agnostics remain uncertain about the existence of a higher power."

Etymology:

Origin:

The term "agnosticism" was coined by Thomas Henry Huxley in the 19th century. It combines the prefix "a-" meaning "without" or "lacking" with the Greek word "gnosis" meaning "knowledge".

Historical Usage:

Agnosticism emerged as a philosophical position in the late 19th century as a response to religious and spiritual debates, particularly in relation to the limitations of human knowledge.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"On the fence"

Explanation:

Used to describe someone who is undecided or unsure about a particular idea or concept, much like the agnostic position of uncertainty related to the existence of a higher power.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Agnosticism is the same as atheism.

Explanation:

Agnosticism and atheism are distinct positions. Agnosticism is a position of uncertainty or unknowability about the existence of a higher power, while atheism is the disbelief in or denial of the existence of a higher power. Agnosticism deals with knowledge, while atheism deals with belief. Agnostics may believe that the existence of a higher power is unknowable, but they do not necessarily deny its possibility.