The Origins of Ethical Culture


Details
In this video, Ethical Culture Leader Louise Jett explores the rich history and bold vision behind the Ethical Culture movement, founded in 1876 by philosopher and social reformer Felix Adler. From “Deed Before Creed” to the fight for civil rights, women’s suffrage, and child labor reform, Ethical Culture has always championed justice through ethical action.
Learn how leaders like Anna Garlin Spencer, John Lovejoy Elliott, Algernon D. Black, and allies like W.E.B. Du Bois, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Albert Einstein helped shape a movement grounded in human dignity, compassion, and civic responsibility.
We honor the past and look ahead—asking how we can answer the future’s call with courage, creativity, and conscience.

The Origins of Ethical Culture