About us
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 Page
- 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?
Featured event

Energy is Life: Why Environmentalism Went Nuclear with Zion Lights
We’re delighted that Zion Lights will be coming to Reading to talk about her forthcoming book Energy is Life: Why Environmentalism Went Nuclear which is due to be published on 3rd February 2026. The book follows Zion’s personal and powerful journey: from grassroots green activism to becoming one of the UK’s leading advocates for nuclear energy.
In a time of climate crisis, energy poverty and growing demand for clean power, she examines why long-established environmentalists like herself once feared nuclear energy, why many have since come to embrace it, and makes a compelling case for why nuclear energy must be part of the solution. Accessible, evidence-based, and deeply human, this book challenges common myths and invites readers to rethink what it really means to care for people and planet alike. If you believe in a greener, fairer future, this book just might change your mind – and give you hope.
Zion Lights is an award-winning Science Communicator and environmental advocate who makes complex science clear and compelling. She explores energy, climate, and technology through the lens of human challenges, showing how curiosity and evidence can shape a better future. Her work combines technical clarity with a sense of wonder, helping people see the big questions and the choices that define our civilisation.
Zion is the author of the forthcoming book Energy is Life, which shows how science, technology, and the choices we make today can transform our energy systems and bring power to those who need it most.
To see more of Zion’s work visit her website Zion Lights. Zion blogs at Everything is Light and is active on X, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Bluesky.
Pre-order her book here.
Zion has an MSc in Science Communication from The University of the West of England (UWE). Zion is also an Honorary Member of Saving our Planet and is also a Patron of Humanists UK.
Upcoming events
8

One Life - Session 4 of 6: Religion
·OnlineOnlineReading Humanists and Windsor Humanists will be running a One Life course in early 2026. The One Life course offers an introduction to humanism including humanist perspectives on science, ethics, religion, ‘everyday humanism’ and society. We will be thinking about the big questions; What should I believe? What should I do? What is the role of humanism in society?
It’s an opportunity to learn more humanism and discuss your beliefs. We welcome all humanists and anyone curious about humanism.
We have a suggested donation of £15 to join the series of 6 sessions or £3 per session. Payment to
- Payee: Reading Humanists
- Sort Code: 23-05-80
- Account No.: 42619124
Subscribe to Reading Humanist newsletter to stay informed https://reading.humanist.org.uk/contact-us/
Thurs 15th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 1 – Introduction
Thurs 22nd Jan 7pm-9pm Session 2 – Science
Thurs 29th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 3 – Ethics
Thurs 5th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 4 – Humanism and Religion
Thurs 12th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 5 – Spirituality and Everyday Humanism
Thurs 19th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 6 – Belonging to Society12 attendees
One Life - Session 5 of 6: Spirituality and Everyday Humanism
·OnlineOnlineReading Humanists and Windsor Humanists will be running a One Life course in early 2026. The One Life course offers an introduction to humanism including humanist perspectives on science, ethics, religion, ‘everyday humanism’ and society. We will be thinking about the big questions; What should I believe? What should I do? What is the role of humanism in society?
It’s an opportunity to learn more humanism and discuss your beliefs. We welcome all humanists and anyone curious about humanism.
We have a suggested donation of £15 to join the series of 6 sessions or £3 per session. Payment to
- Payee: Reading Humanists
- Sort Code: 23-05-80
- Account No.: 42619124
Subscribe to Reading Humanist newsletter to stay informed https://reading.humanist.org.uk/contact-us/
Thurs 15th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 1 – Introduction
Thurs 22nd Jan 7pm-9pm Session 2 – Science
Thurs 29th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 3 – Ethics
Thurs 5th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 4 – Humanism and Religion
Thurs 12th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 5 – Spirituality and Everyday Humanism
Thurs 19th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 6 – Belonging to Society10 attendees
Energy is Life: Why Environmentalism Went Nuclear with Zion Lights
Quakers Friends Meeting House, 2 Church Street,, Reading RG1 2SB, GBWe’re delighted that Zion Lights will be coming to Reading to talk about her forthcoming book Energy is Life: Why Environmentalism Went Nuclear which is due to be published on 3rd February 2026. The book follows Zion’s personal and powerful journey: from grassroots green activism to becoming one of the UK’s leading advocates for nuclear energy.
In a time of climate crisis, energy poverty and growing demand for clean power, she examines why long-established environmentalists like herself once feared nuclear energy, why many have since come to embrace it, and makes a compelling case for why nuclear energy must be part of the solution. Accessible, evidence-based, and deeply human, this book challenges common myths and invites readers to rethink what it really means to care for people and planet alike. If you believe in a greener, fairer future, this book just might change your mind – and give you hope.
Zion Lights is an award-winning Science Communicator and environmental advocate who makes complex science clear and compelling. She explores energy, climate, and technology through the lens of human challenges, showing how curiosity and evidence can shape a better future. Her work combines technical clarity with a sense of wonder, helping people see the big questions and the choices that define our civilisation.
Zion is the author of the forthcoming book Energy is Life, which shows how science, technology, and the choices we make today can transform our energy systems and bring power to those who need it most.
To see more of Zion’s work visit her website Zion Lights. Zion blogs at Everything is Light and is active on X, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Bluesky.Pre-order her book here.
Zion has an MSc in Science Communication from The University of the West of England (UWE). Zion is also an Honorary Member of Saving our Planet and is also a Patron of Humanists UK.
12 attendees
One Life - Session 6 of 6: Belonging to Society
·OnlineOnlineReading Humanists and Windsor Humanists will be running a One Life course in early 2026. The One Life course offers an introduction to humanism including humanist perspectives on science, ethics, religion, ‘everyday humanism’ and society. We will be thinking about the big questions; What should I believe? What should I do? What is the role of humanism in society?
It’s an opportunity to learn more humanism and discuss your beliefs. We welcome all humanists and anyone curious about humanism.
We have a suggested donation of £10 to join the series of 6 sessions or £3 per session. Payment details to follow.
More information to follow soon. Or subscribe to Reading Humanist newsletter to stay informed https://reading.humanist.org.uk/contact-us/
Thurs 15th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 1 – Introduction
Thurs 22nd Jan 7pm-9pm Session 2 – Science
Thurs 29th Jan 7pm-9pm Session 3 – Ethics
Thurs 5th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 4 – Humanism and Religion
Thurs 12th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 5 – Spirituality and Everyday Humanism
Thurs 19th Feb 7pm-9pm Session 6 – Belonging to Society8 attendees
Past events
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