What Is Humanism

Humanism encompasses a broad spectrum of ideologies, with over 25 distinct types that prioritize varying aspects of human experience. While most forms of humanism share a commitment to human dignity, autonomy, and the pursuit of knowledge, they differ in their emphasis on issues like social justice, individual freedom, scientific inquiry, artistic expression, and spiritual exploration. Some types of humanism lean towards liberal or socialist ideologies, while others align with conservative or libertarian views. Additionally, humanism can be secular or religious, focusing on ethical principles or spiritual growth. This diversity of perspectives within humanism reflects the complexity and richness of human existence, acknowledging that individuals and societies have different values, beliefs, and priorities.

A basic definition of humanism is: "Humanism (Noun): A progressive philosophy out of the light personality triad and way of life that emphasizes human dignity, autonomy, and well-being, centered on human interests, values, experiences, and environment. It is a form of collectivism that stresses individual freedom, reason, self-realization, and uniting humanity, while rejecting supernaturalism and religious dogma. Humanism affirms the importance of compassion, empathy, and selfless service to others, and seeks to create a more just, equitable, and fulfilling world through participatory democracy, social justice, and human rights. It is a rational and scientific approach to life that values art, literature, music, and creativity, and recognizes the importance of human experience and culture in shaping values and ethics. By promoting critical inquiry, free thought, and skepticism, humanism encourages individuals to take responsibility for their own lives and to work towards the greater good."

Beliefs:

Humanism is of the light triad personality types which emphasizes the importance of human dignity, autonomy, and well-being. It seeks to promote social responsibility and environmental stewardship through compassion, empathy, and selfless service. Humanism values reason, science, and critical inquiry, and recognizes the importance of education and lifelong learning. It also celebrates art, literature, music, and creativity as essential aspects of human expression and personal growth. Humanism is a non-religious worldview that rejects supernatural or divine beliefs and focuses on naturalism and the scientific method. While Humanism is founded on atheism, some individuals who identify as Humanists may still have spiritual beliefs or practices, but these are usually secondary to and informed by their commitment to Humanist principles.

Values:

Humanism emphasizes the dignity and worth of every human being, with respect for human rights and autonomy, empathy, compassion, kindness, and love towards all sentient beings. It values social responsibility, collective action, and environmental sustainability. Humanism promotes human rights and social justice through democracy, critical thinking, and reason. It encourages compassion, empathy, and selfless service, with altruism, service to others, and care for the well-being of all humans and non-human entities. Humanism also values education, knowledge, art, creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning, as well as personal growth and self-actualization. While allowing for personal spiritual beliefs, Humanism rejects religious or supernatural beliefs as a basis for ethics and decision-making.

Principles:

Humanism emphasizes the importance of reason, science, critical thinking, and skepticism in understanding the world and improving human life. It values human dignity, autonomy, individuality, diversity, and inclusivity, and is committed to democracy, human rights, social justice, and equity. Humanism prioritizes humanity and the planet above all else, with a focus on social responsibility, personal liberty, and the well-being of all living beings. It promotes ethical decision-making based on reason, empathy, and concern for human beings and other sentient animals. While allowing for personal spiritual beliefs, Humanism rejects supernaturalism, dictatorship, and religious dogma. Humanism defends civil liberties, secular governance, and the separation of church and state, and seeks to build a global community based on human rights, democracy, and the scientific method.

What does Humanism oppose:

With so many variations of humanism, basic humanism is often misunderstood and misrepresented, and it's essential to clarify what it opposes. Humanism is not individualism, hedonism, relativism, scientism, inhumane totalitarianism, utopianism, or nihilism. It also doesn't worship human beings, promote utilitarianism, or support speciesism. Humanism opposes the dark triad personality types, violations of humanity and the planet, such as human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and discrimination. It also rejects authoritarianism, whether religious or atheist, and instead advocates for personal autonomy, empathy, and reason. Humanism is a non-religious worldview that values human beings and the natural world, and seeks to build a better world for all. It's important to note that some individuals may use the term "humanism" differently, but most humanist organizations and dictionaries define humanism as a non-religious worldview that opposes supernatural beliefs and promotes human-centered values.

Closing thoughts:

I've been asked what humanism is and I hope this gives a generalized idea to what basic humanism is and isn't. To me it all boils down to being a good person, having a sense of duty to social responsibility and the well-being of humanity and the planet. There's a Sitting Bull quote about what "Warriors" are, warriors as he describes them are just humanists, in fact a lot of indigenous quotes describe humanism, along with collectivism and communism. Act and let your actions show you care.