theistspeople

Theistspeople is a neologism used in religious studies and sociology to describe a broad social category of individuals who identify as theists and participate in communities organized around theistic belief. It is not a formal denomination or creed, and it encompasses adherents of various traditions, including monotheistic, polytheistic, and deistic frameworks who engage in communal worship, study, or charitable activity.

Etymology and usage: The term combines “theist” and “people” and has appeared in scholarly writing since the early 21st century to discuss how belief-based identities shape social affiliation. It is used mainly as a descriptive label to highlight social aspects of theism rather than to assert a single doctrine.

Characteristics: Theistspeople typically emphasize belief in a deity or deities and participation in religious life, ritual, or community activities. Within this umbrella, there is wide variation in doctrine, practice, and organization. The term aims to illuminate shared social experiences of belonging, rather than to imply doctrinal unity.

Scope and debates: Because the term covers diverse traditions, scholars warn against conflating distinct theistic worldviews. Some critics argue that the label risks oversimplification or essentializing differences among religions. The term remains most common in academic or discursive contexts rather than as a self-identified label used by broad populations.

See also: theism; religious identity; sociology of religion; belief and community. Note: there is no formal global organization known as “theistspeople”; it functions as a descriptive concept in discourse about theism and social belonging.