I call it the
Church of Reason and Uncertainty. Here are the initial tenants, which are not set in stone (no pun intended):
1. Humans are not presently capable of understanding how and why the universe was created, but should strive to answer those questions over time through science, logic, and reason.
2. It is arrogant to assume that whatever force created the universe looks, acts, or thinks like humans, or created it primarily for our benefit.
3. Because life is short and we don't know what comes after, we must strive each day to make the world as positive a place as possible for as many people as possible. One practices our religion by being kind to others, working with others, giving to others, and protecting others (except for those deemed "sinners," see below). The powerful should protect the weakest among us. One further practices our religion by using science, logic, and reason to try to advance human understanding and ability to improve the lives of others.
4. One's merit is measured by hard work, intellect, good works, and good will.
5. Sins:
- Causing harm to others without provocation is sin.
- Bigotry, racism, sexism, homophobia, etc., are sins.
- Selfishness is sin.
- Narcissism is sin.
- Lying and misinformation are sins.
- Corruption is sin.
5. Reward for merit / punishment for sin: because there may be no punishment or reward in an afterlife, it is our responsibility to hold up those of merit and hold down sinners. Those who demonstrate merit should be rewarded in school, business, and society. Sinners should be ostracized. Hiring, doing business with, or socializing with sinners is itself a sin.
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Of course, as a religion, we should be entitled to all the privileges of the first amendment, including the right to disobey any and all laws that do not accord with our beliefs.