Which of the following terms best describes the personal quest for meaning outside traditional religions?

The term that best describes the personal quest for meaning outside traditional religions is spirituality. Spirituality encompasses a broad range of beliefs and practices that emphasize individual experience and personal growth, rather than adherence to established religious traditions or dogmas. It allows individuals to explore their own understanding of meaning, purpose, and connection, often seeking experiences that resonate with their personal values and beliefs.

This emphasis on personal experience and exploration differentiates spirituality from religious orthodoxy, which involves strict adherence to established beliefs and practices of a particular religion. Fundamentalism is characterized by a literal interpretation of religious texts and a commitment to a strict set of beliefs within a traditional framework, which does not align with the quest for meaning outside those confines. Dogma refers to a set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true, limiting personal interpretation and exploration. In contrast, spirituality encourages the pursuit of personal truths, making it the most fitting term for those seeking meaning beyond traditional religious boundaries.