humanism

Everyday

1. Humanism is a way of thinking that says people can live good, meaningful lives using reason, kindness and science, without believing in God or a religion. tree →
2. (history) Humanism was a movement about six hundred years ago, in the Renaissance, that brought back the learning of ancient Greece and Rome and put people at the centre of study. tree →

In the lessons

In religious education, humanism is taught as a non-religious worldview: humanists celebrate weddings and funerals without religious words and try to make the best of this one life. In history lessons Renaissance humanists studied old books and art. Phrases: «humanist values», «a humanist wedding», «Renaissance humanism».

Examples

• Humanism is a way of living without religion. tree →
• Humanists believe people should be kind because it helps others. tree →
• My uncle had a humanist wedding. tree →
• Renaissance humanism brought back interest in Greek writers. tree →
• Our RE class compared humanism with Christianity. tree →
• Humanism puts reason and science at the centre. tree →
• Many humanists work for charities. tree →

Note

Uncountable. A follower is a humanist; adjective humanist or humanistic. Do not confuse with «humanitarian» (helping people in need) or «humane» (kind). Speak of views fairly: «Humanists believe…».