Egotheism or Autotheism is the deification or worship of the self. Critics of Johann Gottlieb Fichte and Ralph Waldo Emerson used the terms to label their Transcendental philosophy. Autolatry is another synonym which was used to label the ideology of Max Stirner and as an accusation towards Henry VIII. Ancient religions Several Egyptian kings declared themselves gods during their reign. Identification of the atman (self) with Brahman is a tenet of some sects of Hinduism. In Jainism, one who extinguishes all of their karmas becomes a tirthankara with godlike knowledge and powers. Modern religions Founder of North Korea Kim Il-Sung instituted worship of himself amongst the citizens and it is considered the only country to deify its ruler. Early individuals that declared themselves to be god include Englishman John Robins (prophet) and Danilo Filipov, who led a heterodox Quaker cult in Russia. Contemporary figures who have professed themselves to be deities include Father Divine and Jim Jones. Mormonism is a religion that teaches self deification. See also Apotheosis Church of Satan Divinization God complex Self religion The Essence of Christianity Theosis (Eastern Christian theology) References Peabody, Elizabeth Palmer. “Egotheism, the Atheism of To-Day” 1858, (reprinted in 1886 in her Last Evening with Allston) Conceptions of God Theism