Humanism: Its Past, Present, and Possible Future
Details
Presented by Mim Chapman
Saying "I am a Humanist" isn't like saying "I'm an Existentialist," "...a Jungian, or ".... a Materialist." Humanism is not so much a philosophical stance based on the writings of one or a group of philosophers, but more a process of selecting wisdom from philosophy, science, the arts, and other sources, and using it to create an ethical system and a happy, productive life based on critical thinking, empathy, and collaboration with other humans for the benefit all things that exist in the universe.
"Humanists rely on reason and compassion, rather than supernatural revelation, to guide us in our quest to become more fully human as individuals and to cooperatively improve society and sustain the planet," according to the Unitarian Universalist Humanist Association. Paul Golin, Director of the Society for Humanistic Judaism, says his elevator speech on Humanism is, "Humanists do not beseech some supernatural power to fix things, but roll up their sleeves, encourage others to collaborate, and own the responsibility of trying to address the problem themselves."
We were scheduled to have Chris Mechels address us this Sunday, but his plans changed, and Mim Chapman was asked to pinch hit, leading us in a discussion of Humanism. We will look at its roots in Ancient Greece, its slumber during the Dark Ages, and its awakening during the Renaissance and Enlightenment, as well as its current blossoming, and its possible future power, as our culture faces increasing threats from Christian Nationalism and other forces.
Please read the this brief paper. You may also want to read:
Humanism: Its Past, Present, and Possible Future