1. a movement or doctrine based on the belief that reason and science alone can explain reality and that spiritual or religious knowledge is unnecessary
Usage: often capitalized when referring to specific historical movements; sometimes considered dated or academic
2. the beliefs and practices of the Illuminati, a secret society claiming special spiritual or intellectual insight
Usage: often capitalized; frequently used in conspiracy theories

Examples

• The philosopher's illuminism rejected traditional religious authority in favor of rational inquiry.
• Eighteenth-century illuminism emphasized the power of human reason to understand the natural world.
• Some conspiracy theorists attribute world events to illuminism and secret societies.
• The movement's illuminism promoted the idea that enlightenment comes through knowledge rather than faith.
• Critics of illuminism argue that it underestimates the value of spiritual experience.
• Historical illuminism influenced many intellectual movements during the Age of Enlightenment.