What is Humanism?

by Simon Parcher

Humanism is foremost a theory of life or philosophy. As such, I will quote from "The Philosophy of Humanism" by Corliss Lamont, and start with this concise and inspirational definition of Humanism.

"Humanism is the viewpoint that we have but one life to lead and should make the most of it in terms of creative work and happiness; that human happiness is its own justification and requires no sanction or support from supernatural sources; that in any case the supernatural, usually conceived in the form of heavenly gods or immortal heavens, does not exist; and that human beings, using their own intelligence and cooperating liberally with one another, can build an enduring citadel of peace and beauty upon this earth."

Humanism recognizes the importance of having a philosophy which addresses the perennial need of human beings to find significance in their lives, to integrate their personalities around some clear, compelling view of existence, and to seek definite and reliable methods in the solution of their problems. As well as dissecting and exposing traditionally accepted truths, the philosophy of Humanism also provides answers to age-old existential questions. It represents a specific and forthright view of the universe, the nature of humanity, and the treatment of human problems.

A philosophy of life must be a philosophy of living, a philosophy to live by, and a philosophy of actions, which brings us closer to standards of truth and methods of truth-seeking that are most reliable. The role of philosophy is not only to attain the truth, but also to show how that truth can be applied to our lives; to bridge the gap between thinkers and doers, theory and practice. This is why Humanism is not a way of thinking merely for professional philosophers, but is also a credo for average men and women seeking to lead happy and useful lives.

Accordingly, Humanism makes room for the various aspects of human nature. Though it looks upon reason as the final arbiter of what is true and good and beautiful, it insists that reason should fully recognize the emotional side of humans. One of Humanism's main functions is to set free the emotions from cramping and irrational restrictions.

Many feel that the most important aspect of humanist philosophy of life is freedom. Humanism helps us become aware that we are naturally free. No, not totally free from our biological impulses, genetically programmed tendencies, societal memes, etc., but that we can at least be free from fear of divine retribution for displeasing a supernatural divinity.

Humanists hold that human beings are not externally bound by divine moral codes, notions of right and wrong, and absolute truths. We are a naturally occurring, intelligent and self-aware life form, which may be unique in an uncaring universe. We are here by accident, and for no particular reason. Nothing is inherently right or wrong; good or bad, or meaningful. It is up to us humans to make these attributions. We must exercise our freedom to define the ultimate good, and to work towards this end.

We can view our existence as a life form in this dark and mostly empty universe as precious and something to be treasured simply because it is likely unique. We can value our finite existence for the exciting adventure it is, and accept that something does not need to be permanent and everlasting to be valuable. We can realize that everything, including the universe itself, has limits on its temporal existence.

Humanism is about taking life at face value, appreciating it for what it is, and taking concrete steps to improve the quality of our lives.