http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pantheismDefinition of PANTHEISM
1
: a doctrine that equates God with the forces and laws of the universe
2
: the worship of all gods of different creeds, cults, or peoples indifferently; also : toleration of worship of all gods (as at certain periods of the Roman empire)
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pantheism
noun (Concise Encyclopedia)
Doctrine that the universe is God and, conversely, that there is no god apart from the substance, forces, and laws manifested in the universe. Pantheism characterizes many Buddhist and Hindu doctrines and can be seen in such Hindu works as the Vedas and the Bhagavadgita. Numerous Greek philosophers contributed to the foundations of Western pantheism. In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the tradition was continued in Neoplatonism and Judeo-Christian mysticism. In the 17th century Benedict de Spinoza formulated the most thoroughly pantheistic philosophical system, arguing that God and Nature are merely two names for one reality.
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I've often heard by Theists that since Atheists do not believe in an immaterial world, than they must by default worship the natural, or material world, that they are pure naturalists that worship nature and only the things they can see. Now, considering Atheism is the lack of a belief in any deity(ies), I do find the worship criticism quite incorrect.
Based on the definitions provided above, I see Pantheism as something that can bridge the gap between secular and religious people. But religionists misuse the term as an attack, stating that Atheists do indeed worship something; that being themselves, and nature, and material objects.
Would any users on this forum identify themselves as Pantheists? And how do the Atheists of this forum respond back to the charges religionists make, as described above?