Secular humanism is a worldview that emphasizes reason, ethics, and human flourishing without relying on supernatural beliefs. It emerged from Renaissance humanism and Enlightenment , rejecting religious explanations in favor of science and critical thinking.
Core principles include rejecting the supernatural, valuing reason and science, believing in human agency and progress, and promoting secular ethics. Secular humanism influences education, politics, and social issues, advocating for and human rights.
Origins of secular humanism
Secular humanism emerged as a distinct philosophical and ethical worldview that emphasizes human reason, ethics, and flourishing without reliance on supernatural or religious beliefs
It draws from various intellectual and cultural traditions, including ancient Greek philosophy, Renaissance humanism, and Enlightenment rationalism, which all contributed to its development as a coherent perspective
Renaissance humanism roots
Top images from around the web for Renaissance humanism roots
Renaissance humanism (14th-16th centuries) marked a shift towards human-centered thinking and a revival of classical learning
Emphasized the dignity and potential of human beings, as well as the importance of education, critical thinking, and individual achievement
Key figures such as , , and challenged the dominant religious worldview and laid the groundwork for a more secular approach to knowledge and ethics
Enlightenment rationalism influence
The Age of Enlightenment (17th-18th centuries) further developed the ideas of reason, science, and individual rights as the basis for understanding the world and organizing society
Philosophers such as , , and advocated for religious tolerance, freedom of thought, and the application of rational inquiry to all areas of life
The Enlightenment's emphasis on , skepticism towards traditional authorities, and belief in human progress shaped the intellectual foundations of modern secular humanism
Core principles of secular humanism
Secular humanism is characterized by a set of core principles that guide its approach to understanding reality, human nature, and ethics
These principles are derived from a naturalistic worldview that rejects supernatural explanations and instead relies on reason, science, and human experience as the basis for knowledge and values
Rejection of supernatural beliefs
Secular humanists reject belief in gods, spirits, or other supernatural entities as explanations for natural phenomena or the human condition
They view religious beliefs as human creations that reflect cultural and psychological needs, rather than objective truths about reality
Instead, secular humanists seek to understand the world through empirical observation, logical reasoning, and scientific inquiry
Emphasis on reason and science
Reason and science are seen as the most reliable tools for acquiring knowledge about the universe and solving human problems
Secular humanists value critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and the scientific method as means of testing claims and expanding understanding
They encourage the application of rational and scientific principles to all areas of life, including ethics, politics, and social organization
Belief in human agency and progress
Secular humanists affirm the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings, regardless of their beliefs or backgrounds
They emphasize human agency and the capacity of individuals and societies to shape their own destinies through reason, creativity, and cooperative effort
Secular humanists believe in the possibility of human progress and the improvement of the human condition through education, technology, and social reform
Commitment to secular ethics and morality
Secular humanists reject the idea that morality requires a religious foundation or divine authority
Instead, they advocate for an ethics based on reason, empathy, and concern for human welfare and flourishing
Secular humanist ethics emphasizes values such as compassion, justice, individual rights, and social responsibility as the basis for moral decision-making and behavior
Secular humanism vs religious humanism
While both secular and religious humanism share a focus on human agency and ethics, they differ in their metaphysical beliefs and the role of religion in their worldviews
Understanding these differences and similarities can help clarify the distinctive features of secular humanism as a non-religious life stance
Differences in metaphysical beliefs
Secular humanism is grounded in a naturalistic worldview that rejects belief in God, the supernatural, or an afterlife
Religious humanism, on the other hand, may incorporate religious or spiritual beliefs alongside humanist values and principles
Some religious humanists view God as a symbol or metaphor for human aspirations, while others maintain a more traditional religious faith
Similarities in ethical principles
Despite their differences in metaphysics, secular and religious humanism often share similar ethical commitments
Both emphasize the inherent dignity and worth of all human beings, the importance of reason and compassion in moral decision-making, and the need for social justice and human rights
Many religious humanists, like secular humanists, reject dogmatic or fundamentalist forms of religion in favor of a more open-ended and inclusive approach to spirituality
Secular humanism in practice
Secular humanism is not just an abstract philosophy, but a lived worldview that influences various aspects of personal and public life
From education and politics to ethics and community-building, secular humanists seek to apply their principles in practical ways that promote human flourishing and social progress
Role in secular societies and governments
Secular humanism plays a significant role in shaping the values and institutions of secular societies, which prioritize individual rights, religious neutrality, and the separation of church and state
In many democratic countries, secular humanist principles inform legal frameworks, public policies, and political discourse (protection of free speech, non-discrimination laws)
Secular humanists advocate for government institutions that are inclusive, accountable, and responsive to the needs of all citizens, regardless of their religious or non-religious beliefs
Influence on education and academia
Secular humanism has had a major impact on modern education, particularly in promoting scientific literacy, critical thinking skills, and moral reasoning
In secular schools and universities, humanist values of free inquiry, intellectual diversity, and evidence-based learning are often central to the educational mission
Secular humanists have also established their own educational programs, summer camps, and online resources to provide alternatives to religious education and support for non-religious families
Advocacy for separation of church and state
Secular humanists are strong advocates for the separation of church and state, arguing that government should remain neutral on matters of religion and not privilege any particular religious beliefs or institutions
They oppose the use of public funds for religious activities, the display of religious symbols on government property, and the teaching of creationism or other religious doctrines in public schools
At the same time, secular humanists defend the right of individuals to practice their religion freely, as long as it does not infringe on the rights of others or undermine secular government
Criticisms of secular humanism
Like any worldview, secular humanism has faced criticisms and challenges from various quarters, particularly from religious conservatives who see it as a threat to traditional values and beliefs
Engaging with these criticisms can help secular humanists clarify and strengthen their own positions, as well as foster dialogue and understanding across different perspectives
Accusations of moral relativism
Some critics argue that secular humanism, by rejecting belief in God or objective moral truths, leads to and the erosion of ethical standards
They claim that without a transcendent source of morality, individuals are left to define right and wrong for themselves, leading to a breakdown of shared values and social cohesion
Secular humanists respond that their ethics are grounded in reason, empathy, and concern for human welfare, not arbitrary personal preferences, and that they can provide a robust foundation for moral behavior and social cooperation
Concerns about lack of ultimate meaning
Another common criticism is that secular humanism, by denying the existence of God or an afterlife, strips life of ultimate meaning and purpose
Critics argue that without a higher spiritual reality to give significance to human existence, individuals are left with a bleak and nihilistic worldview
Secular humanists counter that meaning and purpose are human creations, not divine gifts, and that individuals can find fulfillment and value in their relationships, achievements, and contributions to the world around them
Perceived threats to religious traditions
Some religious leaders and communities view secular humanism as a direct threat to their beliefs, values, and way of life
They worry that the spread of secular ideas and institutions will undermine religious faith, weaken moral foundations, and lead to social decay
Secular humanists argue that their worldview is compatible with religious freedom and diversity, and that a secular society is the best way to ensure that all individuals can live according to their own beliefs and values without imposing them on others
Secular humanist organizations and movements
Secular humanism is not just an individual philosophy, but a social and political movement with a network of organizations and initiatives around the world
These groups work to promote humanist values, provide community and support for non-religious individuals, and advocate for secular policies and human rights
International Humanist and Ethical Union
The IHEU is a global federation of humanist, atheist, rationalist, secularist, and ethical culture organizations from over 70 countries
Founded in 1952, it works to promote humanism, defend human rights, and support the development of humanist organizations and initiatives worldwide
The IHEU organizes international conferences, publishes statements and reports on humanist issues, and engages in advocacy at the United Nations and other international forums
American Humanist Association
The AHA is the largest humanist organization in the United States, with over 34,000 members and supporters
Founded in 1941, it promotes humanism, defends the rights of humanists and other non-religious individuals, and advocates for the separation of church and state
The AHA provides educational resources, celebrant training, and legal assistance, and sponsors programs such as the Humanist of the Year award and the Humanist Chaplaincy
Council for Secular Humanism
The Council for Secular Humanism is a non-profit educational organization that promotes secular humanism and advocates for science, reason, and secular values in public life
Founded in 1980 by philosopher , it publishes the magazine Free Inquiry, organizes conferences and seminars, and sponsors research and outreach programs
The Council also operates the Center for Inquiry, a network of local branches and campus groups that provide community and support for humanists, skeptics, and freethinkers
Key secular humanist thinkers and figures
Secular humanism has been shaped by the ideas and contributions of many influential thinkers, writers, and activists throughout history and around the world
Learning about these key figures can provide insight into the development and diversity of humanist thought, as well as inspiration for contemporary humanist practice
Paul Kurtz
Paul Kurtz (1925-2012) was a prominent American philosopher and activist who played a major role in the development of modern secular humanism
He founded the Council for Secular Humanism, the Center for Inquiry, and Prometheus Books, a leading publisher of humanist and skeptical literature
Kurtz authored over 50 books on humanism, ethics, and skepticism, and was a leading advocate for science, reason, and secular values in education and public life
Richard Dawkins
is a British evolutionary biologist, writer, and humanist who has become one of the most influential and controversial figures in the secular movement
He is best known for his popular science books, such as The Selfish Gene and , which argue for the power of evolutionary theory and the dangers of religious belief
Dawkins is a vocal critic of religion and superstition, and has used his platform to promote , scientific literacy, and humanist values
Rebecca Goldstein
is an American philosopher, novelist, and humanist who has written extensively on the intersection of philosophy, literature, and Jewish identity
Her books, such as 36 Arguments for the Existence of God and Betraying Spinoza, explore questions of meaning, morality, and the human condition from a secular humanist perspective
Goldstein is a recipient of the National Humanities Medal and a MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship, and has been a leading voice for humanism and secular ethics in contemporary culture
Secular humanism and the future
As the world becomes increasingly globalized, diverse, and interconnected, secular humanism faces both challenges and opportunities in shaping the future of human society and values
By engaging with these issues and working towards common goals, secular humanists can play a vital role in building a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world for all
Challenges in increasingly pluralistic societies
In many countries, growing religious and cultural diversity has led to tensions and conflicts over issues such as immigration, identity, and the role of religion in public life
Secular humanists must navigate these challenges and find ways to promote social cohesion, mutual understanding, and respect for individual rights in pluralistic societies
This may involve developing new models of secular ethics and citizenship, as well as engaging in dialogue and collaboration with religious and cultural communities to address shared concerns
Opportunities for dialogue with religious traditions
Despite their differences, secular humanists and religious believers often share common values and goals, such as the promotion of peace, justice, and human welfare
In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, there are opportunities for humanists and religious leaders to engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual concern
By building bridges of understanding and working together on shared challenges, humanists and religious communities can contribute to a more harmonious and sustainable future for all
Potential for global ethical framework
As humanity faces urgent global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and conflict, there is a growing need for a shared ethical framework that can guide collective action and decision-making
Secular humanism, with its emphasis on reason, compassion, and human rights, has the potential to contribute to the development of a global ethic that transcends religious and cultural differences
By articulating and promoting universal humanist values, such as the inherent dignity of all people, the importance of scientific inquiry, and the need for international cooperation, secular humanists can help shape a more just and sustainable future for the planet and its inhabitants
Key Terms to Review (26)
Agnosticism: Agnosticism is the philosophical position that asserts the existence or non-existence of God or the divine is unknown or unknowable. This view suggests that human reason and experience are insufficient to provide definitive answers to spiritual questions, leading to a sense of uncertainty about religious beliefs and practices. Agnosticism encourages open-mindedness and critical inquiry, often intersecting with secular humanism in its emphasis on reason and scientific understanding.
American Humanist Association: The American Humanist Association (AHA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1941 that advocates for humanism, a philosophy emphasizing human values and concerns without reliance on religious beliefs. The AHA promotes secularism, ethical living based on reason and empathy, and social justice, aiming to create a society that respects human rights and individual freedom regardless of religious affiliation.
Atheism: Atheism is the lack of belief in the existence of deities or gods. It emphasizes a worldview based on reason, evidence, and scientific inquiry, often rejecting religious doctrines and supernatural claims. Atheism can lead to secular humanism, which advocates for ethical living and human welfare without reliance on religious beliefs or divine authority.
Diderot: Denis Diderot was an influential French philosopher and writer during the Enlightenment, best known for co-founding and editing the 'Encyclopédie,' a monumental work that aimed to compile and disseminate knowledge. His contributions extended beyond mere compilation; he championed rational thought and secular humanism, promoting the idea that human beings could understand and shape their world through reason and education.
Empiricism: Empiricism is a philosophical approach that emphasizes knowledge acquired through sensory experience and observation. It asserts that all knowledge is rooted in empirical evidence, meaning that theories and beliefs should be based on data derived from the physical world rather than intuition or speculation. This idea played a pivotal role in shaping scientific inquiry and has been foundational in various intellectual movements throughout history.
Erasmus: Erasmus was a Dutch Renaissance humanist, theologian, and scholar who lived from 1466 to 1536, widely known for his critical approach to religious texts and emphasis on education. His work laid the foundation for modern humanism and reform movements in Christianity by promoting the idea that individuals should engage in critical thinking and moral integrity rather than blind adherence to tradition. Erasmus's writings, particularly 'In Praise of Folly,' challenged the Church's authority and advocated for a return to the original sources of Christianity.
Ethical Naturalism: Ethical naturalism is the philosophical viewpoint that moral values and principles are derived from natural properties and facts, emphasizing that ethical truths can be understood through observation and empirical evidence. This perspective connects ethics to the natural world, suggesting that moral claims are grounded in facts about human well-being, relationships, and the environment. It bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and ethical discourse, positing that understanding human nature and the world can inform our moral beliefs and practices.
Freethought: Freethought is a philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes reason, logic, and empirical evidence as the primary sources of knowledge and beliefs, rather than authority or tradition. It encourages individuals to think independently, question established doctrines, and form beliefs based on personal reasoning. This approach is closely linked with secular humanism, as both advocate for human values and ethics based on reason and experience rather than religious or supernatural beliefs.
Human dignity: Human dignity refers to the intrinsic worth of each individual, highlighting that every person has inherent value simply by being human. This concept emphasizes the importance of treating individuals with respect, compassion, and fairness, regardless of their background or beliefs. It serves as a foundational principle in various philosophical, ethical, and religious frameworks, influencing views on human rights and moral considerations.
Humanist Manifesto: The Humanist Manifesto is a series of declarations that articulate the beliefs and principles of humanism, emphasizing reason, ethics, and justice while rejecting religious dogma. It serves as a foundational document for secular humanism, advocating for a worldview based on human values and the importance of human agency in shaping life and society.
Hume: David Hume was an 18th-century Scottish philosopher known for his influential ideas on empiricism, skepticism, and naturalism. His thoughts significantly shaped modern philosophy and are often linked to the development of secular humanism, which emphasizes human reason and ethics without reliance on religious doctrine.
International Humanist and Ethical Union: The International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU) is a global organization that promotes humanism, secularism, and ethical living across various cultures and nations. It serves as an umbrella organization for national and regional humanist organizations, aiming to foster cooperation among humanists and advocate for human rights, democracy, and scientific inquiry while opposing religious extremism and discrimination.
Moral relativism: Moral relativism is the philosophical viewpoint that asserts that moral judgments and ethical standards are not absolute but are shaped by cultural, social, or personal contexts. This perspective implies that what is considered right or wrong can vary from one society or individual to another, and thus no single moral framework can claim universal validity. It challenges the idea of objective morality and emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse perspectives in moral discourse.
Nihilism: Nihilism is a philosophical belief that life lacks inherent meaning, purpose, or value. It often arises in response to existential questions and is closely linked to themes of despair, skepticism, and the rejection of traditional beliefs. This perspective interacts with various philosophical movements that explore the nature of existence and meaning, highlighting the tension between the search for significance and the belief in nothingness.
Paul Kurtz: Paul Kurtz was a prominent American philosopher and advocate of secular humanism, recognized for his efforts to promote a rational, ethical worldview grounded in science and human rights. His work emphasized the importance of reason, ethics, and secular morality, advocating for a society where moral values are derived from human needs and interests rather than religious beliefs. Kurtz was influential in establishing organizations that furthered secular humanist ideals and played a crucial role in shaping modern secular thought.
Petrarch: Petrarch, often referred to as the father of Humanism, was an Italian poet and scholar from the 14th century who significantly influenced the Renaissance. His works emphasized individual experience, classical learning, and the beauty of human potential, laying foundational ideas for secular humanism and the shift towards valuing human agency over religious dogma.
Pico della Mirandola: Pico della Mirandola was an Italian Renaissance philosopher known for his work 'Oration on the Dignity of Man,' which is considered a foundational text of humanism. He emphasized the potential for human achievement and the importance of free will, arguing that individuals have the capacity to shape their own destinies through knowledge and moral choices. His ideas challenged traditional views on humanity’s place in the cosmos and celebrated the uniqueness of human beings.
Rationalism: Rationalism is the philosophical belief that reason and logical analysis are the primary sources of knowledge, rather than sensory experience or religious faith. This approach emphasizes the use of intellect and deductive reasoning to gain understanding, often contrasting with viewpoints that prioritize empirical evidence or subjective beliefs. Rationalism plays a significant role in discussions about knowledge acquisition, the nature of faith, the evaluation of miracles, secular ethics, and the relationship between faith and reason.
Rebecca Goldstein: Rebecca Goldstein is an American author and philosopher known for her works that explore the intersection of science, philosophy, and human experience. She often discusses themes related to secular humanism, emphasizing the importance of reason, ethics, and individual agency in a secular context, which aligns with a broader understanding of humanity's place in the universe without reliance on supernatural beliefs.
Reductionism: Reductionism is the philosophical approach that explains complex phenomena by breaking them down into their simpler parts, assuming that understanding these components will lead to a complete understanding of the whole. This perspective often emphasizes a scientific view, where all aspects of reality can be analyzed and understood through their basic elements. Reductionism is linked to naturalism as it seeks to explain everything through physical processes, while in contexts like quantum indeterminacy, it faces challenges from theories that suggest the behavior of particles cannot be fully understood by examining individual parts alone.
Richard Dawkins: Richard Dawkins is a prominent evolutionary biologist, ethologist, and author, best known for his advocacy of atheism and criticism of religion through a scientific lens. He gained fame with his book 'The God Delusion,' where he argues against the existence of a supernatural deity and promotes a scientific understanding of life and the universe. Dawkins' views are instrumental in discussions about the separation of science and religion, as well as the promotion of secular humanism and the New Atheism movement.
Secular Coalition for America: The Secular Coalition for America is a non-profit organization that advocates for the rights of secular individuals and promotes a separation between religion and government in the United States. By representing various secular groups, it aims to influence public policy and ensure that secular viewpoints are considered in legislative processes, particularly in areas related to social justice, human rights, and science education.
Separation of church and state: Separation of church and state refers to the principle that government institutions and religious institutions should operate independently of each other, ensuring that religious beliefs do not influence government policies and vice versa. This concept is foundational in secular governance, promoting the idea that individuals can practice their faith freely without interference from the government, while also protecting the government from religious biases.
The god delusion: The god delusion is a term popularized by Richard Dawkins in his 2006 book of the same name, where he argues that belief in God is a harmful illusion and a byproduct of human evolution. This concept suggests that religious beliefs are not only unfounded but can also lead to detrimental consequences for society and personal wellbeing. It resonates strongly with movements advocating for reason, science, and secular ethics, emphasizing the importance of a naturalistic worldview over supernatural explanations.
Utilitarianism: Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that posits that the best action is the one that maximizes overall happiness or well-being for the greatest number of people. This concept emphasizes the consequences of actions, suggesting that moral decisions should be guided by their outcomes rather than intentions. Its implications stretch across various fields, influencing debates on moral philosophy, public policy, and bioethical dilemmas, shaping discussions around the greater good in diverse contexts.
Voltaire: Voltaire was a prominent Enlightenment thinker and writer known for his advocacy of civil liberties, freedom of religion, and separation of church and state. His works often critiqued the established church and government, promoting rationalism and skepticism as means to challenge traditional beliefs and oppressive systems. Voltaire's ideas are integral to the development of secular humanism, which emphasizes human reason and ethics over religious dogma.