The practices, beliefs, principles, and system of Freemasonry, emphasizing brotherhood, enlightenment, and charitable works.
From 'freemason' + '-ism' (Greek -ismos, indicating a system or practice). An 18th-century term capturing the philosophical and organizational essence of the Masonic movement.
Freemasonism promoted Enlightenment ideas like equality, reason, and progress during times when those were radical—it attracted people like Benjamin Franklin, and it genuinely inspired real charitable work alongside the secrets.
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