In the following question, choose the one-word substitute for the phrase: a belief or opinion that is contrary to what is generally accepted by society or the church.

Introduction / Context:
This item checks knowledge of one-word substitutes related to beliefs and religious or social doctrine. The phrase describes a belief that goes against what is widely or officially accepted, especially within a religious institution. In English, there is a specific term used in theology and history for such a belief, and the question expects that precise word.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- We must replace the phrase “belief or opinion contrary to what is generally accepted” with a single word.
- Five alternatives are given: Invocation, Incognito, Heresy, Mercenary, Dogma.
- Only one option correctly describes a belief that conflicts with accepted doctrine or popular opinion.

Concept / Approach:
The key concept here is understanding vocabulary related to belief systems. A term that specifically means a belief opposed to established or orthodox doctrine is needed. Words used in religious history about people punished for wrong belief (in the view of authorities) are especially important. We must differentiate between words that refer to belief itself and those that refer to related ideas like prayer, secrecy or payment.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Understand the phrase: it refers to a belief or opinion that goes against generally accepted or orthodox views. Step 2: Recall the term “heresy”, which is used for doctrines or beliefs that oppose official church teaching or accepted doctrine. Step 3: Examine option C: “Heresy” – this word exactly fits the idea of an opinion that is in conflict with established belief, especially in religious contexts. Step 4: Examine option A: “Invocation” – this means an appeal or prayer to a deity or authority, not a wrong or unorthodox belief. Step 5: Examine option B: “Incognito” – this means having one's identity concealed, not any kind of belief. Step 6: Examine option D: “Mercenary” – this describes a person who works only for money, especially a hired soldier, not a type of belief. Step 7: Examine option E: “Dogma” – this refers to an established opinion or principle, especially one laid down by an authority, usually the accepted doctrine, not the belief that goes against it. Step 8: Conclude that “Heresy” is the only option that exactly matches the phrase in the question.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard dictionaries define “heresy” as an opinion or doctrine that contradicts orthodox or accepted beliefs, especially in theology. Historical examples include people who were tried for religious heresy when they challenged church teachings. This aligns perfectly with “belief or opinion contrary to what is generally accepted”, confirming that option C is accurate.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Invocation: means a prayer or appeal, not a controversial belief.
- Incognito: indicates hidden identity, unrelated to doctrine or opinions.
- Mercenary: describes a self-interested person, not a belief system.
- Dogma: is actually the official doctrine that heresy opposes, so it is almost the opposite idea.

Common Pitfalls:
Learners may confuse “dogma” and “heresy”, because both are used in religious contexts. Remember that dogma is what the authorities declare to be true, while heresy is the belief that challenges or denies that official truth. Another pitfall is picking a word that simply sounds serious without knowing its meaning. Understanding definitions clearly helps to avoid such errors.

Final Answer:
The correct one-word substitute for “belief or opinion contrary to what is generally accepted” is Heresy.