What are beliefs outside of, or in opposition to orthodox Christianity often considered to be?

Beliefs that exist outside of, or in opposition to orthodox Christianity are often considered superstitions because the term frequently refers to practices or beliefs that may not be rooted in rational evidence or are seen as irrational by mainstream religious standards. Superstitions are generally associated with a sense of belief that operates outside conventional religious or scientific frameworks, often leaning on magical thinking or folklore instead of doctrinal teachings.

In contrast, the other options describe related but distinct concepts. Philosophies represent broader systems of thought or study regarding fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and ethics. Doctrines are specific teachings or beliefs held and promoted by a particular religious group, often based in scripture or tradition, and are more aligned with orthodox views. Worldviews encompass an overall perspective through which individuals interpret the world, shaped by their experiences, culture, and beliefs; while encompassing non-orthodox beliefs, they do so in a more general sense than the term superstitions. Thus, superstitions specifically capture the essence of beliefs that deviate from established Christian doctrines, focusing on the more irrational or folkloric aspects that are often held by those outside orthodox faith.