theosophy

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theosophy Religious philosophy that originated in the ancient world but was given new impetus when the mystic Helen Blavatsky (b. Russia) founded the Theosophical Society in New York in 1875. Modern theosophy continues a mystical tradition in Western thought represented by such thinkers as Pythagoras and Plotinus, but is most significant in Indian thought. The main aims of the Theosophical Society are to promote a spiritual brotherhood of all humanity; to encourage the comparative study of religions, philosophy, and science; and to develop latent spiritual powers. Belief in the transmigration of souls also occupies an important place in theosophical doctrine.See also Besant

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