Humanism

=Humanism=

=Definition = Humanism is the state of being human and what it means to be human. It is also a study of philosophy, science and religion focusing on creating a human centred society. Humanists believe human beings have a special responsibility. Humanists don’t believe in supernatural beings like superman. They believe if humans made mistakes it is up to us to make the world a better place for each other and for future generations. Humanists do not believe in life after death, but they believe the effects of our behaviour can be felt after death. If one was to act with kindness then people would be likely to remember them as a moral person. Humanists do not need to believe in a spiritual being to be ethical. "People should be good to one another because it is the right thing to do. Most people know this. Many people, not just Humanists, follow the Golden Rule." Humanism concerns behaviours which are considered rational and principled of humans.

toc =Sub-terms =

**Renaissance Humanism**- The reformation of cultural and educational activities by humanists.

**Philosophical Humanism-** Concentrates on human needs and interests. Looks at the perspective of life or entire way of life.

**Christian Humanism**- The belief that human freedom and individualism are compatible with Christian practice.

**Secular Humanism-** A philosophy that relies on human reasons, ethnics, justice and the search for human fulfilment.

**Religious humanism**- Focuses on human needs, interests and abilities.

**Progressive humanism**- Stresses the dignity and value of an individual while rejecting the need of a god or divine creator.

**New humanism (literally realism)-** Accepts views of human nature. They argue that human beings are unique among nature’s creatures.

**Ethical humanism**- Acceptance of the responsibility for human life in the world. Believed that man is self-dependant.

=Relationship to the genre of science fiction = - - Science fiction is the literature of humanism. - - Both science fiction and humanist reject beliefs and superstitions. - - Science fiction and humanism came around the same time - - Both are concerned about the future of humans and remaining human. - - Often humanism in science fiction opposes or denies something that wants to erase our humanity and dignity. - - Science fiction often questions humanism and what makes humans human. The science fiction genre is simply about non supernatural plots and with the use of science, creating the future. It is connected to humanism because both revolve around the use of realism. Basically both don’t use over imaginative plot lines like super powers- they both focus on reality. Both science fiction and humanism came around the same time. Often humanism in science fiction opposes or denies something that wants to erase our humanity and dignity. For example: in the sci- fi film, “Matrix”, humans opposed the machines who are trying to defy human morals.

=Links = [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [|www.secularhumanist.org] [] [] []

=Comments and discussion = See Discussion page