Freethought

Freethought is a position in philosophy and social critique that holds that beliefs should be formed on the basis of reason, evidence, and critical inquiry rather than the authority of tradition, dogma, or religious revelation. Freethinkers emphasize intellectual independence, secular ethics, and freedom of inquiry.

Historically, freethought emerged from Enlightenment rationalism and skeptical criticism of religion, with influential voices such as Voltaire, Thomas Paine, and David Hume shaping its approach. In the 19th and 20th centuries, freethought movements and secular organizations advocated for church-state separation, science education, and the reform of public morality.

Freethought is not identical to atheism or agnosticism, though many adherents are nonbelievers. Its core commitment is methodological: belief should be provisional, open to revision in light of new evidence. The practical upshot is often support for secular governance and evidence-based policy.

Critics argue that freethought can undervalue personal experience or moral insight rooted in community and tradition. Proponents counter that reason and evidence can illuminate ethics and public policy while maintaining respect for diverse beliefs. The movement has been associated with secular humanism and scientific skepticism.

Related topics include skepticism, secularism, atheism, rationalism, and secular humanism.