Anti-ritualism

Anti-ritualism is an attitude or approach that questions or rejects the importance of formal rituals, ceremonies, and traditional practices, especially within religious or spiritual contexts. It emphasizes personal belief and direct experience over prescribed customs, often criticizing rituals for being superficial, repetitive, or influential in maintaining social or political power. Anti-ritualists believe genuine spiritual or moral growth should come from inner conviction and ethical action rather than outward observances. This perspective can be found in various religious reform movements and philosophical critiques that challenge the authority or relevance of ritual practices in achieving spiritual or moral goals.