In the news and in movies, Satanists are seen chanting to the devil, causing havoc and making animal sacrifices. However, Satanist and Western junior Dave Lingbloom would say this is far from the truth.
Lingbloom gave a presentation on Satanism under the pseudonym Alder Strauss through the Freethinkers Club on Thursday, Oct. 30.
His presentation was meant to help people understand what Satanism is and how the media has distorted its true meaning, he said.
“Satanism is an atheistic religion that utilizes Satan as a symbol that champions individuality, liberty and embracing life in the here and now,” Strauss said.
A Satanist does not worship or believe in the devil or in any other mythical beings, Strauss said. Instead, Satan is viewed as a major symbol that celebrates man’s carnal nature to indulge in things that might otherwise be labeled as sinful, he said.
“I saw [Satanism] as a perfect tool to live my life to the fullest.”
Western senior Simon Grant, last year’s Freethinkers Club president, said Strauss’ presentation was very different than what he imagined.
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Like other religions, there are many different groups that call themselves Satanists, but each have different ways of practicing the belief.
The Satanic Temple and Joy of Satan groups are often in the media for their more radical movements and campaigning, which has lead people to believe that’s what Satanism really is, Strauss said.
In his presentation, Strauss gave examples in history where Satanists have been portrayed, as Strauss said, “bloodthirsty, horned boogeymen.”
For example, in February 2014, Pennsylvania “Craiglist killer” Miranda Barbour claimed she killed dozens as part of her Satanist cult,
Reports like these in the news lead people to believe all Satanists are murders, Strauss said.
Debunking the myths of Satanism - News Photo - The Western Front
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