Definition
Naturalist reality is the picture in which the universe is a self-contained natural order, not a stage directed by transcendent purpose. Meaning is constructed from within the world rather than supplied from outside it.
Why It Matters
A commitment to a naturalist reality ensures that our world-view is grounded in observable, repeatable evidence. If we abandon this for mysticism, we lose the ability to collectively solve problems like disease or climate change, as we no longer share a common evidentiary foundation.
Core Concepts
- The universe is not obligated to match human hopes for cosmic purpose.
- Naturalism becomes more credible as explanations succeed without supernatural supplements.
- Loss of cosmic purpose does not imply loss of local meaning.
- Reality should be accepted before values are constructed.