Freethinking is the practice of questioning accepted opinions and beliefs to determine whether they are grounded in fact and supported by evidence.
Freethinkers maintain that true beliefs are not based on authority, tradition, revelation or dogma, but derive from the application of logic, reason and observation. They therefore value independence of mind, critical thinking, and the scientific method, and they aim to arrive at conclusions based on investigation and rational analysis rather than blindly accepting whatever they are told.
The freethought movement arose initially from a dissatisfaction with religious doctrine, and it remains closely associated with secularism. Many freethinkers consider themselves to be non-religious skeptics, holding that there is insufficient evidence to justify belief in the existence of supernatural phenomena and that religious texts are not a reliable guide to the truth.
Freethinking brings considerable benefits to society. It promotes intellectual independence and encourages innovation, leading to breakthroughs in mathematics, science, technology and philosophy. It facilitates social and political progress, and helps people to resist propaganda and fake news. Finally, the freethinking habit of mind enables individuals to make rational choices in their own personal lives. It brings advantages to everyone.