Apollonian spirituality, or Apollonianism, is a modern religious philosophy incorporating the principles of science, reason, and skeptical inquire as its very foundation. Rather than requiring a strict adherence to prophetic revelations, rigid dogma, or supernatural causation as most religions do, Apollonianism emphasizes science and reason as the keys to intellectual enlightenment. This may at first appear impossible, for theology often stands diametrically opposed to the empirical sciences. However, there do exist religions and religious philosophies that are not incompatible with science and reason. Among these are Humanism, Platonism, Neoplatonism, Hermeticism, and the Eastern traditions such as Taoism, Confucianism, and Buddhism. Apollonianism has adopted many aspects from these various religions and philosophies, but goes one step further emphasizing reason and modern science as a key path to intellectual enlightenment.
Apollonianism asserts that the universe we inhabit is the only meaningful reality and that "God" can best be thought of as the Cosmos as a whole, complete with all the matter, energy, and laws of nature operating within. The question of life-after-death, reincarnation, and "higher planes of existence" remain outside the scope of science, and thus, they are left to the individual's own rational judgment to determine. It should be remembered, however, that in all such inquires Apollonianism encourages the scientific view over any kind of mystical or supernatural interpretation.
In addition, Apollonianism advances the idea that ethical behavior must be driven by the necessity to serve the greatest good and to mitigate suffering, and should not be forced upon us by some vague supernatural will or the threat of divine retribution. To that end, the 22 Apothegms of Enlightenment embody the ethical, moral, and spiritual "tenets" governing Apollonian spirituality.
Basic Beliefs
Apollonianism is founded on the position that no greater truth exists in the Cosmos than what can be observed and discovered, and that no assertion should be accepted without verifiable evidence. Just as the philosophers of ancient times were the scientists of their day, so too must we, following in their footsteps, turn to modern science for our answers today.
Click here to read more on the basic beliefs of Apollonian Spirituality.
Science and Religion
The central concern of Apollonian spirituality is the understanding that there exists not greater truth in the Cosmos than what can be observed and discovered, and that science provides the only means to gain such knowledge. At first this perspective may seem entirely atheistic, or perhaps analogous to Secular Humanism. As Apollonians, we believe that reason, logic, and creativity must be cultivated if we are to progress as a technologically advanced species--and yet, without some form of spirituality we are left empty and cold.
Click here to read more on "Science and Religion".
The Old with the New
If Apollonianism aspires to create a new spiritual philosophy for the 21st century and beyond, some may wonder why we look to ancient philosophies such as Platonism, Stoicism, and Hermetism, as well as various religions both Eastern and Western. The answer is simply that, as a religion, Apollonian spirituality requires a solid foundation firmly rooted in the past. These ancient philosophies and religions constitute a basic framework into which Apollonianism can prosper and grow. Without such a framework, Apollonianism would have no direction and no concrete basis, and would very likely crumble, or simply dissolve into pure atheism.
Click here to read more on "The Old with the New".
Enlightened Reason
Enlightened Reason is the quality of rational judgment enabled by a clarity of perception and cognition. It is simply clear thinking and sound judgment unimpeded by dogmatic beliefs and quaint superstitions. Enlightened Reason can be viewed as a more wakeful state of consciousness that allows us to remain mindfully aware of the objective reality we inhabit. Enlightened Reason also embraces the inalienable ideals and movements that began in the 18th century and continue to this day--ideals such as freedom and democracy, human rights and equality, the progress of science, and ethics based on these values rather than religiously imposed morality.