Inclusionism

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This article is about the theological-philosophical concept. For the Wikipedian philosophy see .

Inclusionism is a term for a movement that acknowledges and accepts all known viewpoints pertaining to the origin and purpose of mankind, unless proven false by the scientific method. Inclusionists accept that no one religion has yet been scientifically proven to be correct or incorrect. As a result, they should all be considered as valid possibilities.

Inclusionists accept that the teachings of all religions have some merit. Inclusionists accept the possibility of accuracy in most of the claims made by religions, though they themselves might not actively support any one interpretation.

Some Inclusionists are in agreement with the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche who warned against blind faith ("I cannot believe in a God who wants to be praised all the time"). Inclusionists are free to celebrate the Holidays of any religion.

Inclusionists accept the possibility that life may exist outside Earth, and that any or all of the numerous gods depicted by religions have valid on various levels.

The basic philosophy of inclusionists is to try to live life in a way that is free-thinking, compassionate and accepting of others. The following words by Mrs. A.J. Stanley (though often attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson) represent an "Inclusionist's Credo" of sorts:

"He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; Who has left the world better than he found it, Whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; Who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; Who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; Whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction."

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