Sociology Plus
Transcendentalism Definition
Transcendentalism is a philosophical belief asserting that God exists outside and independently of the universe, which God created. This concept is typically contrasted with the doctrine of immanence, which posits that God resides within the world.
Contrast with Immanence
The distinction between transcendence and immanence is central to transcendentalist thought. Immanence refers to the belief that the divine dwells within the material world. This idea of immanence is commonly found in pantheism, a doctrine wherein human beings and Nature are viewed as manifestations of an all-inclusive divinity.
Theological Relations
The relationship between these concepts has implications for monotheistic thought; generally, monotheism is considered transcendentalist. Related concepts include religion and theism.