According to secular humanism, what is the basis for morality and decision-making?

Secular humanism posits that human beings are capable of being ethical and moral without relying on religion or belief in a deity. Morality and decision-making are based on human reason, logic, and secular ethics.

Does secular humanism view humans as inherently good or evil?

No, secular humanism does not assume that humans are inherently good or evil, nor does it place humans above nature. Instead, it highlights the unique responsibility humans have and the ethical consequences of their decisions.

How does secular humanism approach the acceptance of ideologies?

A fundamental aspect of secular humanism is the belief that ideologies, whether religious or political, must be thoroughly examined by each individual rather than accepted solely on faith. This encourages critical thinking and personal evaluation.

What methods do secular humanists primarily use to search for truth?

Secular humanists engage in a continuous search for truth, primarily utilizing science and philosophy. They believe these methods are essential for understanding the world and making informed decisions.

What ethical frameworks do many secular humanists draw upon for their moral codes?

Many secular humanists derive their moral codes from philosophies such as utilitarianism, ethical naturalism, or evolutionary ethics. Some also advocate for a science of morality, seeking to understand ethical principles through empirical study.

What is the internationally recognized symbol for humanism?

The 'Happy Human' is recognized as the official symbol of humanism internationally and is used by secular humanist organizations worldwide. It was based on a 1965 design by Denis Barrington.

Is the term 'secular humanism' universally accepted or used?

No, the term 'secular humanism' is not universally used, being most prevalent in the United States. Many international humanist organizations prefer simply 'Humanism,' arguing that the adjective 'secular' can sometimes obscure the broader meaning or become more important than the concept itself.

How has the meaning of 'secular humanism' evolved over time?

The term 'secular humanism' has evolved, with historical usage dating back to the 1930s and noted by figures like Archbishop William Temple warning against retaining Christian values without Christian faith. It was embraced more widely in the 1960s and 70s by those who were anti-religious or preferred a non-religious approach.

What role did the Council for Democratic and Secular Humanism (CODESH) play in the organizational identity of secular humanism in the US?

CODESH, later the Council for Secular Humanism, played a role in giving secular humanism an organizational identity in the United States with the release of 'A Secular Humanist Declaration' in 1980. However, the text notes that no overall organization currently uses 'secular humanism' in its name.

What historical philosophical movements influenced secular humanism?

Secular humanism's historical roots can be traced back to the writings of pre-Socratic philosophers, rediscovered during the Renaissance. It also draws from the Enlightenment and the intellectual traditions of movements like Positivism and the Ethical Movement.

What is the distinction between Renaissance humanism and modern secular humanism?

While the term 'humanism' historically referred to humanities scholars or Renaissance intellectuals, modern secular humanism, emerging in the 20th and 21st centuries, is explicitly non-religious or atheistic, distinguishing it from earlier forms.

Who coined the term 'secularism' and what did it mean?

George Holyoake coined the term 'secularism' in 1851. He defined it as 'a form of opinion which concerns itself only with questions, the issues of which can be tested by the experience of this life'.

What was the significance of Auguste Comte's philosophy in relation to secular movements?

Auguste Comte, the founder of positivism, believed history progressed through stages toward a rational 'positivist' society. His philosophy, particularly the idea of a 'religion of humanity' to fulfill the social role of religion, influenced the proliferation of secular organizations in 19th-century England.

How did the Ethical Movement contribute to the development of secular humanism?

The Ethical Movement, originating with figures like Felix Adler and societies like the South Place Ethical Society, emphasized morality independent of theology and aimed to disentangle moral ideas from religious doctrines. This movement served as an important precursor to modern secular humanism.

What are the core principles outlined by the Council for Secular Humanism regarding their worldview?

The Council for Secular Humanism outlines principles including the need to test beliefs, commitment to reason and scientific method, focus on fulfillment and creativity, the search for truth, valuing this life, developing ethical principles based on human well-being, ensuring justice and fairness, and building a better world through reason and tolerance.

What are the key ideals presented in 'A Secular Humanist Declaration'?

'A Secular Humanist Declaration' (1980) promotes ideals such as free inquiry, separation of church and state, freedom from religious control, ethics based on critical intelligence, moral education, religious skepticism, reliance on reason, science and technology for understanding, evolution, and education for building humane societies.

How do secular humanists view traditional religions?

Secular humanism generally views traditional religions as having failed to meet contemporary needs and often considers them to be superstitious, repressive, and closed-minded. They advocate for a naturalistic approach to understanding the world and ethics.

What is the humanist perspective on morality?

Secular humanists believe morality is a human enterprise, not dependent on the supernatural. While opposing absolutist morality, they affirm that objective ethical standards can be discovered through rational deliberation, experience, and scientific inquiry. Many also adopt principles of the Golden Rule.

How does secular humanism relate to atheism and agnosticism?

Secular humanism is compatible with atheism and often entails at least a form of weak or agnostic atheism, as well as agnosticism. However, simply being atheist or agnostic does not automatically make someone a humanist.

What is the humanist stance on religious liberty?

Secular humanists defend religious liberty, considering it as precious as the rights of believers. They are opposed to state atheism and emphasize human freedom, democracy, and freedom of conscience.

How do humanist organizations typically approach holidays?

Humanist organizations do not mandate specific holidays. Individual humanists may choose to celebrate prevailing national holidays in a secular manner, or mark astronomical events like solstices and equinoxes, often emphasizing their pre-Christian origins.

What are some officially endorsed days of celebration by Humanists International?

Humanists International endorses World Humanist Day (June 21), Darwin Day (February 12), Human Rights Day (December 10), and HumanLight (December 23) as significant days for humanist celebration, though these are not typically public holidays.

What role do humanist celebrants play?

Humanist celebrants perform secular ceremonies for life events such as weddings, funerals, child namings, and coming-of-age ceremonies. These services are notably popular in countries like Scotland and Norway.

How has secular humanism been addressed in US legal contexts?

Secular humanism entered US legal discourse notably in the 1961 Supreme Court case *Torcaso v. Watkins*, where Justice Hugo Black included it in a list of religions not requiring belief in God. This led to debates and controversies, particularly regarding its inclusion in educational settings.

What was the outcome of the *Peloza v. Capistrano School District* case regarding secular humanism?

In *Peloza v. Capistrano School District*, a teacher argued that teaching evolution constituted teaching the 'religion' of secular humanism. The court rejected this, stating that neither evolution nor secular humanism had been legally established as religions for Establishment Clause purposes.

What is the primary difference between secular humanism and state atheism, according to Paul Kurtz?

According to Paul Kurtz, a key difference is secular humanism's commitment to human freedom and democracy, contrasting with the militant atheism of regimes like the Soviet Union, which historically violated human rights and suppressed religious freedom.

What is the significance of the Amsterdam Declaration?

The Amsterdam Declaration, first passed in 1952 and revised in 2002 and 2022 by Humanists International, is an attempt to define humanism. The 2022 version outlines humanism as striving to be ethical, rational, seeking fulfillment, and serving as an alternative to dogmatic religion and nationalism.

What are the four main points of the 2022 Amsterdam Declaration?

The 2022 Amsterdam Declaration states that humanists strive to be ethical, strive to be rational, strive for fulfillment in their lives, and that humanism provides meaning and purpose as an alternative to dogmatic religion, authoritarian nationalism, tribal sectarianism, and selfish nihilism.

How does Humanists International define humanism in its minimum statement?

Humanists International defines humanism as a democratic and ethical life stance affirming that humans have the right and responsibility to give meaning to their own lives. It advocates for building a humane society based on human and natural values, using reason and free inquiry, and is explicitly non-theistic and rejects supernatural views of reality.

What historical movements are considered precursors to modern secular humanism?

Precursors to modern secular humanism include the Ethical Movement, Positivism, freethought movements, secularism, and various non-religious radical congregations from the 18th and 19th centuries.

What was the role of George Jacob Holyoake in the secular movement?

George Jacob Holyoake coined the term 'secularism' and was a leading figure in the secular movement in Britain. He co-founded the Leicester Secular Society in 1851, which later helped form the National Secular Society.

What is the humanist perspective on the search for truth?

Secular humanists believe in a continuous search for objective truth, understanding that new knowledge and experiences constantly refine our perception. They primarily rely on science and philosophy for this pursuit.

How did the 'Hatch amendment' attempt to address secular humanism in education?

In 1984, Senator Orrin Hatch proposed an amendment to an education act that would have prohibited the use of federal funds for 'any course of instruction the substance of which is Secular Humanism.' However, the lack of a clear definition for 'Secular Humanism' led to controversy and the eventual deletion of the reference.

What was the ruling in *Smith v. Board of School Commissioners of Mobile County* concerning secular humanism?

In *Smith v. Board of School Commissioners of Mobile County*, a federal judge initially ruled that textbooks promoting secular humanism violated the Establishment Clause. However, the Eleventh Circuit Court unanimously reversed this, stating the textbooks conveyed neutrality rather than antagonism towards theistic belief.

What is the humanist view on moral absolutism?

Secular humanists are opposed to moral absolutism, believing that dogmatic adherence to any single moral system (like Kantian or Christian ethics) is unreasonable given the current state of knowledge. They believe ethical principles can be discovered through rational deliberation.

What is the relationship between humanism and the 'Happy Human' symbol?

The 'Happy Human' is the internationally recognized symbol for humanism, used by secular humanist organizations globally. It was designed in 1965 by Denis Barrington.

What is the humanist approach to fulfilling the need for meaning and purpose?

Humanism addresses the widespread human demand for meaning and purpose by offering a non-religious framework. It serves as an alternative to dogmatic religion, nationalism, sectarianism, and nihilism, emphasizing human capabilities and values.

How do humanist organizations like Humanists International promote a unified identity?

Humanists International encourages a unified identity by recommending the use of 'Humanism' (capitalized) without adjectives like 'secular,' and by promoting the global use of the 'Happy Human' symbol.

What is the humanist perspective on the role of science and technology?

Secular humanists view science and technology as the most effective means of understanding the world. They advocate for their use in solving human problems and advancing knowledge.

What is the humanist stance on religious skepticism?

Religious skepticism is a key ideal for secular humanists, meaning they question or doubt religious claims rather than accepting them based on faith. This aligns with their emphasis on critical thinking and evidence.

How do humanist organizations differ from religious institutions regarding creed and deed?

While some early ethical societies emphasized 'deed without creed,' focusing on actions rather than belief, modern humanism generally stresses ethical living and rational inquiry. Unlike many religions, it does not require adherence to a specific creed or set of beliefs.

What is the humanist view on the separation of church and state?

Secular humanists strongly advocate for the separation of church and state, viewing it as essential for maintaining religious freedom and preventing the imposition of religious dogma on public life and education.

What is the humanist perspective on moral education?

Moral education is considered an essential aim by humanists, focusing on developing ethical principles and critical thinking skills based on human reason and well-being, rather than religious doctrines.

What is the humanist view on freedom of inquiry?

Free inquiry, meaning the freedom to explore ideas and seek truth without censorship or imposed beliefs, is a core humanist ideal. This contrasts with the acceptance of dogma often found in religious traditions.

What is the humanist perspective on justice and fairness?

Secular humanists are committed to securing justice and fairness in society. They actively work to eliminate discrimination and intolerance, promoting equality and respect for all individuals.

How do humanists view the concept of 'faith'?

Humanists generally reject faith as a basis for accepting ideologies or moral principles, preferring critical reason, evidence, and scientific methods. They believe that ideas should be tested and examined individually.

What is the humanist approach to resolving societal problems?

Humanists believe that progress can be made in building a better world through reason, open exchange of ideas, goodwill, and tolerance. They apply these principles to finding solutions for societal challenges.

What is the humanist view on the afterlife?

Secular humanism focuses on 'this life' as opposed to an afterlife. Their efforts are directed towards making the current life meaningful through understanding oneself, history, culture, and diverse perspectives.

What is the significance of the 'Happy Human' symbol's origin?

The 'Happy Human' symbol, recognized internationally for humanism, was designed in 1965 by Denis Barrington, representing a key visual identifier for the movement.

What is the humanist perspective on 'hyphenated humanism'?

Some humanist organizations, like Humanists International, view terms like 'secular humanism' or 'religious humanism' as potentially divisive or limiting. They prefer the unqualified term 'Humanism' to foster a more unified identity.

Secular Humanism Wiki: The Humanist Compass: Charting a Course Through Reason and Ethics

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Core Philosophy

Guiding Principles

Secular humanism is a life stance that embraces human reason, secular ethics, and philosophical naturalism. It fundamentally rejects religious dogma, supernaturalism, and superstition as foundations for morality and decision-making.

Human Agency

It posits that individuals are capable of being ethical and moral without reliance on religious belief or the existence of a deity. This perspective emphasizes human responsibility and the ethical implications of our choices, rather than attributing them to divine will.

Pursuit of Truth

Secular humanism advocates for a continuous search for truth, primarily through the rigorous application of science and philosophical inquiry. It encourages the critical examination of all ideologies, whether religious or political, rather than passive acceptance.

Terminology and Identity

Evolving Language

The term "secular humanism" has evolved, with early usage dating back to the 1930s. Some commentators note that the adjective "secular" can sometimes overshadow the core concept of humanism itself, leading organizations like Humanists International to prefer the unqualified term "Humanism."

American Context

In the United States, "secular humanism" gained prominence and an organizational identity, particularly with the formation of the Council for Democratic and Secular Humanism (CODESH) in 1980. However, many organizations now favor the broader term "Humanism" to foster a unified identity.

Rejection of Dogma

While some adherents embrace the "secular" qualifier, others find it potentially obfuscating or demonized by opposing groups. The preference for capitalized "Humanism" aims to signify a distinct, non-religious life stance, free from hyphenated modifiers.

Historical Roots

Ancient and Renaissance Influences

The philosophical underpinnings of humanism trace back to pre-Socratic philosophers, rediscovered during the Renaissance. The term "humanist" historically referred to scholars of the humanities, distinct from the modern, explicitly non-religious secular humanists.

The Secularist Movement

In the mid-19th century, George Holyoake coined "secularism" to describe a focus on life's testable questions, independent of religious dogma. This movement, centered around figures like Holyoake and Charles Bradlaugh, led to the formation of secular societies and influenced the development of modern humanist thought.

Ethical and Positivist Precursors

The Ethical Movement, emphasizing morality independent of theology, and Positivism, with its stages of societal development culminating in a rational phase, provided crucial philosophical groundwork. These movements sought to provide meaning and social cohesion outside traditional religious frameworks.

Foundational Declarations

Humanist Manifestos

Humanists have articulated their philosophy through various manifestos, beginning with Humanist Manifesto I in 1933, which sought to establish a non-theistic religion to meet contemporary needs. Subsequent manifestos (II and III) have refined these principles, emphasizing reason, scientific inquiry, and human well-being.

Amsterdam Declaration

The Amsterdam Declaration, first passed in 1952 and revised in 2002 and 2022, serves as an attempt by global humanist organizations to define humanism. It outlines core tenets focusing on ethical striving, rationality, life fulfillment, and providing an alternative to dogmatic belief systems.

Key Principles

Central to these declarations is the affirmation of human responsibility, the use of reason and free inquiry, and the development of ethics based on human and natural values. Humanism is defined as a democratic and ethical life stance, distinct from theistic or supernatural worldviews.

Ethical Frameworks

Reason-Based Morality

Secular humanism asserts that morality is independent of theology and can be discovered through reason, experience, and scientific inquiry. It seeks viable ethical principles that enhance human well-being and individual responsibility, rejecting absolutist moral systems.

Situational Ethics

Recognizing the uniqueness of each moral situation, humanists may adapt their approach, drawing from consequentialism or virtue ethics. This flexibility allows for nuanced ethical decision-making, moving beyond rigid doctrines.

Universal Standards

While opposing absolutism, many humanists believe in the possibility of discovering universal moral standards through rational deliberation. This pursuit aims to foster societal functioning and ethical progress, grounded in humanistic values rather than divine command.

Global Presence and Challenges

Worldwide Reach

Secular humanist organizations are active globally, though precise numbers are difficult to ascertain due to varying definitions and census practices. Many individuals identifying with "No Religion" may align with humanist principles.

Conflict with Fundamentalism

Humanism often finds itself in tension with religious fundamentalism, particularly concerning the separation of church and state. While humanists may view religion as repressive, fundamentalists may perceive humanism as a threat to their values.

Critiques and Reinterpretations

Critics have sometimes portrayed secular humanism negatively, associating it with moral relativism or societal decline. Conversely, some scholars argue that an overemphasis on secularism risks diminishing the broader philosophical and spiritual dimensions of humanism.

Legal and Societal Recognition

The "Religion" Debate

In the United States, the legal status of secular humanism has been debated, particularly concerning its classification as a religion for legal purposes, such as tax exemptions. Court cases like Torcaso v. Watkins (1961) noted humanism among non-theistic beliefs, though the precise legal definition remains complex.

Establishment Clause Cases

Cases like Peloza v. Capistrano School District (1994) addressed claims that teaching evolution constituted teaching secular humanism as religion. Courts have generally rejected this, distinguishing between philosophical stances and legally recognized religions, emphasizing that secular humanism does not inherently promote antagonism towards theistic beliefs.

Function vs. Belief

Legal decisions regarding tax exemptions often hinge on whether an organization functions similarly to a religious institution, rather than solely on its specific beliefs. This approach acknowledges that non-theistic practices can fulfill similar societal roles as traditional religions.

Humanist Celebrations and Rituals

Secular Observances

Humanism does not mandate specific religious holidays. Individuals often choose to participate in prevailing cultural holidays secularly or mark natural events like solstices and equinoxes. This reflects a focus on human experience and historical traditions.

Designated Days

Humanists International endorses days such as World Humanist Day (June 21), Darwin Day (February 12), and Human Rights Day (December 10) for organized events and awareness campaigns.

Life Celebrations

Humanist celebrants perform ceremonies for weddings, funerals, child namings, and coming-of-age rituals. In countries like Scotland and Norway, these secular ceremonies are highly popular, demonstrating a significant demand for non-religious life events.

Key Organizations

International and National Bodies

Numerous organizations worldwide support secular humanism and related philosophies. These include Humanists International, the American Humanist Association, the Center for Inquiry, and various national humanist societies, fostering global networks and advocacy.

Prominent organizations include:

American Atheists
American Humanist Association
Center for Inquiry
European Humanist Federation
Freedom From Religion Foundation
Humanists International
Humanists UK
Secular Student Alliance

Related Movements

Secular humanism shares common ground and often collaborates with movements such as rationalism, freethought, ethical culture, and skepticism. These interconnected philosophies emphasize critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.

Related Concepts

Philosophical Connections

Secular humanism intersects with various philosophical traditions, including rationalism, empiricism, and ethical naturalism. It also shares concerns with movements like effective altruism and transhumanism, focusing on human potential and well-being.

Notes and References

Citations

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Wikibooks Resources

Additional resources are available on Wikibooks, offering deeper dives into related topics such as moral problems, the source of religions, and the development of universal religions.

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References

"Free Church ministers in Anglican pulpits. Dr Temple's call: the South India Scheme." The Guardian, 26 May 1943, p. 6 Guardian and Observer Digital Archive

"Capitalization [of Humanism] is not mandatory... It is recommended usage and the normal usage within IHEU"—Jeremy Webbs, IHEU webmaster, from a response to a Wikipedia editor inquiry, dated 2 March 2006.

Howard B. Radest. 1969. Toward Common Ground: The Story of the Ethical Societies in the United States. New York: Fredrick Unger Publishing Co.

Walter, Nicolas (1997). Humanism: what's in the word? London: RPA/BHA/Secular Society Ltd, p. 43.

Christopher P. Toumey, "Evolution and secular humanism," Journal of the American Academy of Religion, Summer 1993, Vol. 61 Issue 2, pp. 275â301

Fellowship of Humanity v. County of Alameda, 153 Cal.App.2d 673, 315 P.2d 394 (1957).

Ben Kalka v Kathleen Hawk, et al. (US D.C. Appeals No. 98-5485, 2000)

Point of Inquiry podcast (17:44), 3 February 2006.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Secular humanism Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI for educational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended for academic exploration and critical evaluation.

This is not philosophical advice. The information presented here should not substitute for rigorous academic research or consultation with experts in philosophy, ethics, or related fields. Always consult primary sources and scholarly analyses for a comprehensive understanding.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information provided.

The Humanist Compass

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

💡 Core Philosophy

🧭 Guiding Principles

🌍 Human Agency

🔬 Pursuit of Truth

🏷️ Terminology and Identity

🗣️ Evolving Language

🇺🇸 American Context

🤔 Rejection of Dogma

⏳ Historical Roots

🏛️ Ancient and Renaissance Influences

🇬🇧 The Secularist Movement

💡 Ethical and Positivist Precursors

📜 Foundational Declarations

✍️ Humanist Manifestos

🤝 Amsterdam Declaration

🌟 Key Principles

⚖️ Ethical Frameworks

🧠 Reason-Based Morality

🔄 Situational Ethics

🤝 Universal Standards

🌍 Global Presence and Challenges

🌐 Worldwide Reach

⚔️ Conflict with Fundamentalism

🗣️ Critiques and Reinterpretations

🏛️ Legal and Societal Recognition

⚖️ The "Religion" Debate

📜 Establishment Clause Cases

⚖️ Function vs. Belief

🎉 Humanist Celebrations and Rituals

🗓️ Secular Observances

📅 Designated Days

💍 Life Celebrations

🤝 Key Organizations

🌐 International and National Bodies

🔗 Related Movements

🔗 Related Concepts

🤔 Philosophical Connections

📚 Further Reading

📝 Notes and References

📚 Citations

📖 Wikibooks Resources

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Core Philosophy

Guiding Principles

Human Agency

Pursuit of Truth

Terminology and Identity

Evolving Language

American Context

Rejection of Dogma

Historical Roots

Ancient and Renaissance Influences

The Secularist Movement

Ethical and Positivist Precursors

Foundational Declarations

Humanist Manifestos

Amsterdam Declaration

Key Principles

Ethical Frameworks

Reason-Based Morality

Situational Ethics

Universal Standards

Global Presence and Challenges

Worldwide Reach

Conflict with Fundamentalism

Critiques and Reinterpretations

Legal and Societal Recognition

The "Religion" Debate

Establishment Clause Cases

Function vs. Belief

Humanist Celebrations and Rituals

Secular Observances

Designated Days

Life Celebrations

Key Organizations

International and National Bodies

Related Movements

Related Concepts

Philosophical Connections

Further Reading

Notes and References

Citations

Wikibooks Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice