What is Deism?

In this episode, Jay Forrest presents Deism as a rational, individual path for the “spiritual but not religious,” defining it as belief in a non‑intervening Creator knowable through reason and the laws of nature, in contrast to theism’s personally involved deity. Identifying as a Deist philosopher who blends Eastern wisdom, karma, and process thought, he draws on figures like Lord Herbert of Cherbury, Thomas Paine, and the Buddha to affirm freedom from creeds, temples, and imposed authority, inviting listeners to embrace a “pathless path” shaped by kindness, reason over religion, love for others, and a commitment to making the world better.