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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Is Mystrikism associated with Scientific Pantheism or Pandeism?
This question frequently arises due to our deep awe and respect for the unknown and how we engage with it through naturalistic principles. Although we revere the mysteries of the universe, some confuse this appreciation with the divine or superstitious associations found in these other worldviews. This post clarifies why Mystrikism does not align with Scientific Pantheism or Pandeism despite our shared admiration for the universe.
We considered adopting the Scientific Pantheism label, but it didn’t resonate. According to the OED, pantheism is defined as:
Pantheism - NOUN
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A doctrine that identifies God with the universe or regards the universe as a manifestation of God.
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The worship or tolerance of many gods.
Scientific Pantheism seeks to blend the awe of nature with a naturalistic understanding of the universe. However, it still blurs the line between natural and supernatural by implying that the universe and “God” are one and the same, albeit in a non-personal or non-supernatural sense. Even though scientific pantheism attempts to ground itself in the observable universe, it often treats the unknown with a reverence that borders on divinity, giving it a mystical or sacred quality. Mystrikism diverges from this by rejecting any notion of divinity, even a naturalised one. Our reverence for the dynamic and infinite unknown is entirely rooted in naturalism. We view it as something to explore and derive meaning and purpose from, not something to venerate or imbue with supernatural or divine significance. The mystery of the universe fuels our curiosity, not faith. Since scientific pantheism carries elements that cannot, at this time, be tested or verified by scientific methods, it fails to meet our standard for determining truth through evidence.
Similarly, we considered Pandeism, but it also didn’t align with our worldview. Though the OED does not explicitly define pandeism, it is generally understood as:
Pandeism - NOUN
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A belief that combines elements of pantheism and deism, positing that God created the universe and then became the universe, ceasing to exist as a separate, conscious entity.
Pandeism suggests that the universe was created by a god or gods, which then became the universe itself. This concept still revolves around the idea of a god, even if it’s non-conscious post-creation. Again, this doesn’t align with Mystrikism. We don’t entertain the notion of the universe being created by or evolving from a conscious entity. To Mystriks, the unknown is a dynamically infinite and natural concept, but not divine. Much like pantheism, Pandeism cannot be validated through scientific methods or supported by evidence. As a result, it falls short of the naturalistic principles that shape our understanding of reality.
Because our worldview does not accommodate any version of a god or gods, even under the “scientific” banner, we refrain from adopting such labels. A key distinction between Mystrikism and similar philosophies is our inclusion of real “spirituality.” This “spirituality” may be naturalised, with no supernatural elements, but it is no less real and meaningful to us.
What is the stance on Mystrikism when the "science" is
rigged for a certain bias for political and corporate agenda?
At the Union of Mystriks, we recognise the power of the scientific method as the only honest and effective tool for understanding our world. Yet, we are also acutely aware that the products of science can be misused, leading to outcomes driven by greed or violence. This understanding shapes our commitment to not only uphold empirical evidence and rational inquiry but also to advocate for kindness and ethical responsibility in the application of scientific knowledge.
Our approach is to confront potential biases in science with both a critical and compassionate lens, ensuring that our pursuit of understanding is always aligned with our core values of integrity, empathy, and kindness. We strive to promote a version of science that is not only accurate but also humane and considerate of the broader impact on society and the environment.
In essence, Mystrikism is dedicated to merging a rigorous scientific perspective with a deep commitment to ethical and compassionate action, recognizing the profound responsibility that comes with scientific discovery and application.
Does Mystrikism have dogma or dogmatic elements?
In examining Mystrikism, it's evident that despite its unique approach to "spirituality", it harbours its own form of dogma. Dogma, fundamentally, is a set of principles laid down as incontrovertibly true.
Mystrikism, while advocating for a reason-based philosophical identity and natural "spirituality", still establishes a framework of beliefs and values that its adherents are expected to accept. These include the emphasis on naturalism, the reverence for the unknown, and the commitment to kindness and scientific understanding of the world. Although these principles are rational and scientifically grounded, their adoption within the Mystrikism community carries a semblance of dogmatic belief insofar as they form the unchallengeable core of what it means to be a Mystrik. This is not unusual for any belief system, as the very act of defining a set of core principles or values inevitably creates a boundary between what is and isn't aligned with that system.
In the case of Mystrikism, its dogma lies in its foundational principles, which, while open to rational inquiry and scientific understanding, are still presented as essential tenets of our doctrine.
I’m intrigued by your Union, but why must you use words like
"spiritual’?" They have so much baggage.
Despite its avowed distance from the supernatural, the essence of Mystrikism’s adoption of the term "spirituality" ignites debate. This stance is a challenge to the monopolisation of "spirituality" by the realms of the supernatural. It begs a fundamental question: why should the superstitious claim exclusive rights to a concept as universally human as spirituality?
At the heart of Mystrikism lies an audacious belief: "spirituality", in its purest form, transcends the supernatural. It is a facet of the human condition, an innate response to the awe and wonder of the universe that requires no belief in the paranormal. The term "spiritual" has been hijacked and co-opted by those who tether it to the metaphysical . Yet, Mystrikism argues, the feelings and experiences described as "spiritual" predate these associations. They are as old as humanity itself, embedded in our very biology, evoked by natural processes and the profound reactions they stimulate within our brains and central nervous systems.
The argument extends beyond mere semantics. It is a reclaiming of territory, an assertion that the profound, transcendent, and sacred belong not to the supernatural but to the realm of the natural, accessible to all through the lenses of reason, science, and empirical observation. Mystrikism posits that the awe and reverence we feel, the moments of deep connection and transcendence, are not gifts from an ethereal realm but manifestations of our natural being.
Enter Aweism, a cornerstone of Mystrikism, which underscores this narrative. Aweism celebrates the ability to experience profound wonder and connection without recourse to supernatural explanations. It is an acknowledgment that the universe, in all its natural splendour, is sufficient to evoke feelings traditionally described as "spiritual". Aweism, therefore, is not a diminishment of "spirituality" but its expansion, grounding it in the realities of the world as we can observe and understand them.
Critics might argue for alternative descriptors,’ connective,’ 'deeply felt,' and 'transformative', yet Mystrikism holds that these terms, while accurate, fall short of capturing the full spectrum of the "spiritual" experience. They lack the depth, the universality, the bridge to the transcendent that "spirituality" provides. It is not merely about semantics; it's about reclaiming and redefining a space for those who seek a "spiritual" dimension grounded in the natural world, unencumbered by the supernatural.
In this light, Mystrikism's embrace of "spirituality" is both a challenge and an invitation: a challenge to the traditional boundaries of the terms and an invitation to experience the "spiritual" through the natural, the empirical, and the rational. It is a call to recognise that "spirituality", in its essence, is a human experience, not owned by any one tradition but shared by all, a profound connection to the universe and each other that does not require the supernatural to be real.
Thus, Mystrikism asserts its right to the term "spiritual", not as a concession to the supernatural but as a celebration of the human capacity for awe, wonder, and transcendence within the natural world. It is a statement that "spirituality" belongs to all of us, grounded in our experiences, science, and rational understanding of the universe. In reclaiming "spirituality", The Union offers a vision of a world where the sacred is not beyond us but among us, woven into the fabric of the natural world and accessible through the wonder of rational discovery and the beauty of genuine awe.
What is our Policy on Adult Vaccinations?
Firstly, we firmly support using vaccines as effective tools in preventing disease based on substantial scientific evidence demonstrating their safety and efficacy. Vaccines are crucial in public health, reducing the prevalence and morbidity associated with infectious diseases.
We recognise vaccines as natural solutions that leverage the body's innate immune response to build protection against specific diseases. Vaccination is viewed as a communal act of kindness. By getting vaccinated, individuals not only protect themselves but also contribute to the broader protection of the community, especially those who are vulnerable or cannot be vaccinated.
Honesty and transparency are paramount. We advocate for precise, accurate, and comprehensive education about the benefits and risks associated with vaccines, allowing individuals to make informed decisions without coercion. Governments, organisations and businesses should not coerce, belittle, or bully individuals into being vaccinated. Respect for personal choice is essential, particularly when individuals are fully informed of the risks and benefits of vaccines.
We would ask our public institutions to commit to providing educational resources and programs to ensure that all community members have access to reliable information about vaccinations, empowering them with the knowledge to make cognizant health decisions. Recognising the dynamic nature of public health, this policy is flexible and open to modifications in response to the severity and impact of specific diseases.
In the context of a highly virulent and destructive disease, our stance may adapt in accordance with the "social contract". This philosophical concept implies that individuals either implicitly or explicitly agree to surrender some freedoms to a governing body in exchange for the protection of essential rights and the maintenance of social order. In public health emergencies, where individual choices can disastrously impact community well-being, a temporary recalibration of this policy may be necessary to protect public health and ensure the survival and well-being of the community at large.
This vaccination policy reflects Mystrikism's dedication to upholding the scientific method, fostering communal kindness, respecting natural solutions, and maintaining honesty and humility in our ongoing discourse about public health. We respect individual choices but also recognise our collective responsibility in the face of global health challenges. We are committed to revisiting and revising this policy as necessary to adapt to new scientific knowledge and changing public health landscapes.
Is Mystrikism Secular?
Before we answer this question, getting on the same page regarding definitions might be helpful. The term ‘secular’ refers to attitudes, activities, or other aspects of life, culture, or society that are NOT connected to religion or spirituality. In this context, the word "religion" pertains to belief systems and practices centred around faith in and worship of a higher power or deity. Also, the term ‘spiritual’ relates to matters involving the human spirit or soul as opposed to material or physical things:
Mystrikism is secular. It is grounded in naturalism, altogether rejecting supernatural and paranormal elements, and relies on scientific inquiry and rational thought to understand the world. However, it incorporates elements that might seem akin to superstition if only given a superficial glance. These elements, however, are entirely naturalistic with no irrationality in any sense.
Here’s a detailed look at how MystriKism fits within the secular context:
Secular Characteristics
1. Naturalism: Mystrikism strictly adheres to a naturalistic worldview. It emphasises that reality is entirely natural and ultimately only comprehensible through rational and empirical enquiry without invoking supernatural explanations.
2. Scientific Method: The movement upholds the methods of science as the most honest and only reliable approach to understanding reality. This reliance on empirical evidence and reason is a cornerstone of secular philosophy.
3. Agnostic Non-theism: Mystrikism's stance of agnostic non-theism aligns with secularism, acknowledging the limits of human knowledge and rejecting faith-based beliefs in deities or paranormal entities.
Elements that may seem Non-Secular.
1. “Spiritual” Experiences: While Mystrikism is secular, it recognises, and values naturalised "spiritual" experiences. These transcendent moments of awe and connection are inspired only by the natural world and the vast unknown, with no requirement for the supernatural. These feelings are derived solely from our brain and nervous system’s reaction to moments of sublime wonder. We consistently denote “spiritual” with quotation marks to show the difference.
2. Higher Power Concept: The movement's reverence (respect and awe), not worship, for the unknown as our higher power adds a layer of depth. This concept has no mind, personality, agenda, awareness, divine or supernatural elements, but is an acknowledgment of the universe's infinite complexity, promoting humility and subduing hubris.
While Mystrikism is secular in its core principles and methodology, it enriches the secular experience by encouraging a sense of wonder by embracing and savouring moments of sublimity. This blend makes it unique, offering a comprehensive approach to living ethically and appreciating the natural world without relying on supernatural beliefs.
What does it mean to be a Mystrik in everyday life?
Being a Mystrik means striving, reflecting and learning to improve on each of our core principles, to do our best to embody the following precepts in our daily lives:
Evolution: Embrace imperfection and continuous growth. Mistakes are opportunities to learn, adapt, and improve in all areas of life.
Kindness: Always doing our best to be kind and considerate, even when it seems undeserved.
Honesty: Viewing the world and oneself through the lens of scientific philosophies and methods, maintaining an honest perspective.
Realism: Embracing a reality that is entirely natural without relying on superstition, the supernatural, or the paranormal.
Humility: Holding profound reverence for the infinite unknown, recognising it as our higher power.
Inspiration: Finding wonder, awe, and beauty in those rare, inexplicable moments of naturalised "spirituality" that transcend ordinary experiences.
Is Mystrikism Just Dressed-up Scientism?
When people encounter Mystrikism, they might wonder if it’s another form of Scientism. At first glance, Mystrikism shares some features with Scientism, but significant differences set it apart and give it a broader, more nuanced approach to understanding the world.
What Is Scientism?
Scientism is the belief that the empirical and experimental methods of the natural and physical sciences are the only valid ways to understand reality. Its detractors feel this is done to excess, dismissing or devaluing other forms of knowledge, such as philosophical, ethical, or artistic perspectives, as inferior or irrelevant. Scientism focuses exclusively on objective truths that can be measured and tested, often excluding subjective experiences and insights.
The Role of Science in Mystrikism
In many ways, Mystrikism embraces features that could be associated with Scientism. When it comes to finding the best approximate truth, the methods of science are the most reliable, only honest and objective tools available. Mystrikism upholds the scientific method as one of our prime directives, recognising its unparalleled ability to reveal truths about the natural world through empirical evidence and logical reasoning.
However, this is where the similarity with Scientism ends. Unlike Scientism, Mystrikism doesn’t dismiss other forms of knowledge as irrelevant or inferior. While we believe philosophical and ethical concepts can and should be tested and explored using rational inquiry, we also acknowledge that artistic ideas and experiences are subjective. Their personal ‘truth’ lies in the eye of the beholder and is not universal. This subjectivity doesn’t make them less valuable or meaningful; instead, it highlights the diverse ways humans can engage with and understand the world.
Mystrikism: More Than Just Science
Mystrikism integrates science with ethical values, humility, and a sense of awe, recognising that not all aspects of human experience can be fully captured by scientific inquiry alone. We believe in a naturalistic worldview that rejects supernatural explanations in favour of those grounded in reality. Yet, we also embrace the profound secrets of existence, finding value in the experience of awe and wonder at the universe's complexity, beauty and mystery.
This broader perspective is what sets Mystrikism apart from Scientism. While we hold science in high regard, we also acknowledge the limits of human knowledge and the scientific method itself. Mystriks are aware that most aspects of existence remain beyond our comprehension, at this time, and that’s okay. In these moments of ineffability and inexplicability, we find a naturalised form of "spirituality," one that enriches our lives without resorting to supernatural explanations.
Ethics, "Spirituality," and Science in Harmony
Mystrikism strongly emphasises kindness and ethical living, integrating these values into our worldview. This moral dimension is central to who we are, guiding our actions and interactions in a way that pure Scientism doesn’t address. Moreover, we embrace a naturalised form of "spirituality," which is about experiencing sublimity through natural phenomena, whether the vastness of the cosmos or the intricate beauty of life.
While Mystrikism shares with Scientism a deep respect for the scientific method as the most trustworthy tool for understanding reality, it goes beyond by incorporating ethics, “spirituality”, a humble perspective, and a profound appreciation for the unknown. Mystrikism isn’t just about science; it’s about living a life that balances rational inquiry with kindness, awe, and a commitment to ethical principles. So, no, Mystrikism is not just Scientism. It’s a philosophy that honours the full spectrum of human experience, grounded in the objective truths science reveals and the subjective meanings we create within ourselves.
