New humanism

Definition

New humanism is a philosophical and cultural movement that emerged in the early 20th century, emphasizing the value and agency of human beings while critiquing the strict determinism of earlier ideologies. This movement sought to reinstate individual dignity and moral responsibility within the context of modern society, which was seen as increasingly alienated and mechanized. It draws from classical humanist traditions but adapts them to address contemporary issues, promoting an ethical framework that values human experiences and relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New humanism arose as a response to rapid industrialization and urbanization, which led to feelings of disconnection and alienation among individuals.
2. This movement sought to affirm human creativity and emotional depth in literature, advocating for themes that emphasize personal experience and subjective reality.
3. Key figures in new humanism often engaged with social issues, reflecting a desire for literature to serve as a tool for social critique and personal empowerment.
4. New humanism contributed to a literary renaissance in China during the early 20th century, inspiring writers to blend traditional values with modern concerns.
5. The focus on individual experience in new humanism influenced various artistic expressions, resulting in works that explore psychological depth and human relationships.

Review Questions

• How does new humanism differ from classical humanism, particularly in its approach to modern societal issues?
  • New humanism differs from classical humanism by addressing contemporary challenges such as alienation caused by industrialization. While classical humanism focused on the study of ancient texts and the celebration of human achievements, new humanism emphasizes individual experiences and moral responsibility within a rapidly changing society. It seeks to reinstate personal dignity against the backdrop of an increasingly mechanized world.
• In what ways did new humanism influence literary themes and styles during its emergence in the early 20th century?
  • New humanism significantly influenced literary themes by encouraging writers to focus on personal experience and emotional depth. This shift led to a greater exploration of characters' inner lives and relationships, contrasting with earlier literary trends that may have prioritized societal or historical narratives. Writers began to tackle social issues more directly, using literature as a means for social critique while embracing psychological complexity.
• Evaluate the impact of new humanism on Chinese literature during the early 20th century and its role in shaping modern Chinese identity.
  • New humanism had a profound impact on Chinese literature by inspiring writers to merge traditional Chinese values with modern realities. This blending allowed for a rich exploration of individual identity within the context of societal transformation. As writers responded to social changes through their works, new humanism helped shape modern Chinese identity by fostering a sense of personal agency and moral responsibility amidst the upheaval of the time, ultimately laying the groundwork for future literary movements.

Related terms

Humanism: A Renaissance cultural movement that focused on the study of classical texts, emphasizing human potential and achievements.

Existentialism: A philosophical movement that explores individual existence, freedom, and choice, highlighting the responsibility of individuals to find meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.

Modernism: A broad cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break with traditional forms and a search for new modes of expression in art, literature, and architecture.