Dudeism

thumb|Dudeist logo Dudeism () is a religion, philosophy, or lifestyle inspired by "The Dude", the protagonist of the Coen Brothers' 1998 film The Big Lebowski.

Dudeism's stated primary objective is to promote a modern form of Chinese Taoism, outlined in Tao Te Ching by Laozi (6th century BCE), blended with concepts from the Ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus (341–270 BCE), and presented in a style as personified by the character of Jeffrey "The Dude" Lebowski, a fictional character portrayed by Jeff Bridges in the film The Big Lebowski. Dudeism has sometimes been regarded as a mock religion due to its use of comedic film references and occasional criticism of religion in its traditional sense; however, its founder and many adherents take the underlying philosophy somewhat (although not overly) seriously. March 6 is the annual sacred high holy day of Dudeism; entitled The Day of the Dude, the holiday is practiced on the same day the film was released in the US.