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Humanism
Information in this PPT is from:
http://humanism.org.uk
Humanists…
• Think for themselves about what is right and
wrong, based on reason and respect for
others.
• Find meaning, beauty and joy in the one life
we have, without the need for an afterlife.
• Look to science instead of religion as the best
way to discover and understand the world.
• Believe people can use empathy and
compassion to make the world a better place
for everyone
A humanist…
• trusts to the scientific method when it comes to
understanding how the universe works and
rejects the idea of the supernatural (and is
therefore an atheist or agnostic)
• makes their ethical decisions based on reason,
empathy, and a concern for human beings and
other sentient animals
• believes that, in the absence of an afterlife and
any discernible purpose to the universe, human
beings can act to give their own lives meaning
by seeking happiness in this life and helping
others to do the same.
Logo
History of the Happy Human
The symbol was chosen in a competition
organised by the British Humanist
Association in 1965.
It was designed by Dennis Barrington.
The BHA used the original Happy Human
(first known as the Happy Man)
in its own logo for some years
and encouraged use of the symbol around the world
What is a humanist?
• “Humanist” is used today to mean those who
seek to live good lives without religious or
superstitious beliefs. Humanists believe that
moral values follow on from human nature and
experience in some way.
• Humanists base their moral principles on reason
(which leads them to reject the idea of any
supernatural agency), on shared human values
and respect for others. They believe that people
should work together to improve the quality of
life for all and make it more equitable.
• Humanism is a full philosophy, “life stance” or
worldview, rather than being about one aspect of
religion, knowledge, or politics.
Any Questions?
Ethical
• Dealing with morals or the principles of
morality; relating to right and wrong in
conduct.
• Being in accordance with the rules or
standards for right conduct or practice,
especially the standards of a profession:
– It was not considered ethical for physicians to
advertise.
Discernable
• perceived by the senses or intellect
BHA
• British Humanist Association