Item 5 in The Satanic Temple's Seven Fundamental Tenets
Beliefs should follow scientific understanding
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.
- Position
- 5
- Form
- Mixed formulation
- Obligation
- Context-dependent
- Wording status
- Translation
- Intended audience
- Members and supporters of The Satanic Temple
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2027
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Fifth tenet
Original term: Fifth tenet
Transliteration: Fifth tenet
Source wording
<p>Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.</p><p><em>Editorial paraphrase; consult the linked source for full wording and context.</em></p>
Literal meaning
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.
Broader interpretation
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.
Historical context
This principle belongs to The Satanic Temple's Seven Fundamental Tenets and must be read within that framework's setting.
Practical meaning
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.
Ethical purpose
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments.
Exceptions and disputes
Flexible interpretation prevents rigid literalism but requires explicit reasons and accountability.
Variations across schools or traditions
Other Satanic organisations and independent Satanists use different texts, symbols and ethical systems.
Modern application
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments. Modern application should consider consent, evidence, proportionality, power and consequences.
Criticism and difficult cases
Flexible interpretation prevents rigid literalism but requires explicit reasons and accountability.
Truth By Reason analysis
Conform beliefs to the best evidence and never distort scientific facts to fit prior commitments. Application should preserve the ethical purpose while avoiding coercion, discrimination and preventable harm.
Ethical themes
Sources
- The Satanic Temple — Seven Fundamental Tenets Primary source