Pseudoreligion

Pseudoreligion is a generally pejorative term applied to a non-mainstream belief system or philosophy which is functionally similar to a religious practice, typically having a founder, principal text, liturgy and faith-based beliefs. Belief systems such as Theosophy, corporate Kabbalism, Discordianism, Scientology, Objectivism, the Church of the SubGenius and the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster have all been referred to as pseudoreligions. The more serious-minded participants in these groups prefer to consider themselves part of a proper religion, however the mainstream tends to ascribe to them fringe status.

Related Topics:
Pejorative - Belief system - Philosophy - Religious - Liturgy - Theosophy - Kabbalism - Discordianism - Scientology - Objectivism - Church of the SubGenius - Flying Spaghetti Monster

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Dangerous pseudoreligions may be referred to as cults. Innocuous pseudoreligions, such as the First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine, might be considered sub-cultures.

Related Topics:
Cults - Sub-cultures

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Some pseudoreligions may begin as splinters or hold-overs from traditional religions based in Apocryphal or Pseudepigraphical writings not accepted within the originating religion. Examples of this include the various sects of Gnosticism.

Related Topics:
Apocryphal - Pseudepigraphical - Gnosticism

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~