The Next Step in Religion: An Essay toward the Coming Renaissance

"The Next Step in Religion: An Essay toward the Coming Renaissance" by Roy Wood Sellars is a thought-provoking exploration into the transformation of religious beliefs in the face of modern advancements. Sellars champions a bold shift away from old-fashioned supernatural concepts of faith, advocating for a contemporary understanding rooted in humanistic values and a natural view of the world. The essay journeys through the evolving landscape of religion alongside societal progress and transforming human ideals, proposing that religion's future hinges on its ability to adapt to current knowledge and moral structures. Sellars begins by asserting a new perspective emerging, forged by scientific breakthroughs, social changes, and a profound awareness of human needs. Sellars stresses the significance of inner strength in managing this change, encouraging people to challenge their accepted beliefs, especially after times of conflict. He contemplates that genuine spiritual understanding should emphasize principles that elevate human existence and cultivate community, transitioning from fear-driven and supernatural aspects to an involved recognition of the moral elements of life, paving the way for a revolutionized spirituality that focuses on human bonds and practical morals over old-fashioned ideologies.