What we’re about
This is a group for anyone who is, or thinks they might be, a Humanist, or who simply wants to find out more about Humanism in a relaxed, sociable atmosphere.
We have a lively programme of free events including talks by external speakers, courses, discussions on topical issues, a book group, and other social activities. We are also active in the community promoting humanism in schools and at public events. All our events are open to both members and non-members. Come along and meet us, we’re a friendly and engaging bunch. All are welcome!
Humanists are people who shape their own lives in the here and now because we believe it's the only life we have. We treat others with compassion, warmth, understanding and respect. We understand the amazing world we live in through reason and science. We recognise the moral responsibility to protect the environment and to make the world a better place for the sake of current and future generations.
Reading Humanists welcome all who share these views, and those who are curious about humanism.
You can find out more by:
- browsing the Reading Humanists website
- looking on Meetup: Reading Humanists
- following us on Facebook: Reading Humanists Group
- signing up for our Email Newsletter
Please consider supporting Reading Humanists by Joining Reading Humanists helping us to provide a stronger voice for the non-religious in Reading.
For more about Humanism in the UK check out the Humanists UK website and the Humanists UK YouTube channel.
If you’re curious about how your views compare to humanism, why not try the quiz: How humanist are you?
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- The BIG ZOOM Discussion - Is Social Media Damaging Teenage Mental Health?Link visible for attendees
The BIG ZOOM Discussion
Building on the success of the One Life Course last year and the regular monthly Lunchtime Discussion Group, Humanists in Berkshire will hold our next Zoom event on the topic Is Social Media Damaging to Mental Health?All are welcome to attend. Humanists in Berkshire is a collaboration between Reading and Windsor Humanists.
Is Social Media Damaging Mental Health?
We will be discussing concerns about the impact of social media on mental health. Roger Heppleston will be opening the discussion by outlining the work of Harvard social psychologist Jonathan Haidt on this subject. Roger will base this on Haidt's book, The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness. Haidt's research suggests that social media are seriously damaging the health of teenagers, particularly girls. This is leading to serious mental health issues including a dramatic increase in rates of depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicide.We will also discuss the wider impact of social media and the internet on mental health and social life in general.
A briefing paper for the session is available at Is Social Media Damaging Teenage Mental Health?
About The BIG ZOOM
BIG ZOOM sessions will start with a short presentation setting out the issue. This will then be followed by a breakout into smaller groups to allow everyone the opportunity to participant. The session will end with an open plenary session for the groups to feedback the results of their deliberations and discussions. The intent of this initiative is to give those who cannot attend the regular lunchtime sessions or our evening events the opportunity to participate online and also provide an open forum for everyone to have the opportunity to converse and make friends with fellow humanists online.Zoom details:
Zoom: The BIG ZOOM - Are Social Media Damaging to Mental Health?
Meeting ID: 867 3231 3173
Passcode: 110345 - A Guided Tour of Reading Town CentreThree Guineas, RG1 1LY
We're delighted to have Terry Dixon (who organises Terry's Reading Walkabouts) to give us A Guided Tour of Reading Town Centre. Come and join us for a wonderful opportunity to find out about some of the history of Reading. All Welcome.
Terry will provide us with a guided walk of about two miles through Reading town centre, lasting around two and a half hours. Along the way we'll hear about the history of Forbury Gardens, Reading Abbey, war and battles, famous people and 5B's, two myths with some wonderful stories, and two powerful women from Reading's past.
Terry organises historical guided walks of Reading on a regular basis. They are all well researched and provide a fascinating insight into the history of Reading and its people. You can find out more about Terry's other walks on his Facebook Page: Terry's Reading Walkabouts
We'll meet at 9.50 am on Saturday 19th July outside The Three Guineas in front of Reading station. The walk will end at Castel Street. Optionally, we'll be able to have a drink and some lunch if you wish. You'll also be to talk to Terry about the places, events, and people he covered on the walk.
Please bring a cash donation of £5 or £10 per adult, and £1 per child over five. Proceeds will go to The Ways & Means Trust, a great local charity, who are helping adults with learning, physical, or mental health disabilities. They provide social and practical skills for independent living, training, socialisation, and work experience opportunities to assist adults to lead rewarding lives, realise their potential and to build their confidence.
Note that you are required to register for this event as there is limit of 20 attendees.
