Final answer:
The question discusses the Deistic view of a non-interventionist God and the universe as a self-operating clockwork system, which emerged during the Enlightenment and challenged the traditional theistic view of an actively involved deity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the philosophical and theological concept known as Deism, particularly regarding the nature of God's interaction with the universe and human affairs. This view describes a God who, after creating the universe, does not interfere in its operations or the choices of its inhabitants, suggesting a clockwork-like existence where events unfold following natural laws without divine intervention.
This contrasts with a theistic perspective wherein God is actively involved in the day-to-day events within the universe and may intervene miraculously. The Enlightenment period, with thinkers like Newton, contributed to the development of this perspective, which in turn challenged traditional religious beliefs and the idea of an ever-present, interventionist deity.
In addition to the introduction of Newtonian physics, other philosophical contributions from various cultures and eras have attempted to reconcile or debate the concept of God as an unmoved mover, the nature of free will, predestination, the existence of evil, and whether divine perfection necessitates a need for creation.
The connection between divine perfection and the act of creation questions the completeness of a deity, spurring discussions on if a perfect being would have purposes or needs to fulfill.
Ultimately, this Deistic view reshapes the notion of divine omnipotence and free will, portraying a self-determined universe that operates under law without divine interruption.