Humanism

Humanists believe in the scientific method and evidential explanations of the existence of life and the universe. Their lives are guided by the natural empathy that all human beings share.

Humanists believe that we can lead happy and fulfilling lives in pursuit of a kinder and more caring world based on equality for all.

Humanists believe that the strong attachment that people have to their families, and wider groups up to the whole of Humanity, is a product of our evolution. Humanists believe that morality is innate, because of our evolution as social animals. The cooperation and kindness that enabled us to create thriving communities is an example of morality.

Humanists have always relied on rational explanations. Needless to say, in civilisations where religions became an integral part of social and political life, humanists were often viewed as heretical and frequently persecuted for their beliefs.

All over the world, including China, India and the Middle East, there have been thinkers and philosophers who have put forward ideas about ethics, morality and society without the need for any reference to a divine power. These are ideas which today we would describe as humanist. Notable humanists from the 19^th and 20^th centuries include Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein and Bertrand Russell. 

Humanists are either atheist or agnostic, and feel that a belief in a God is not a prerequisite for living good, happy and meaningful lives.

The following is a summary of the 2022 International Declaration of Humanism.

‘Humanists strive to be ethical. We accept that morality is inherent to the human condition, grounded in the ability of living things to suffer and flourish, motivated by the benefits of helping and not harming, enabled by reason and compassion, and needing no source outside of humanity. We affirm the worth and dignity of the individual and the right of every human being to the greatest possible freedom and fullest possible development, compatible with the rights of others. To these ends we support peace, democracy, the rule of law, and universal legal human rights. We reject all forms of racism and prejudice and injustice. We seek to promote the flourishing and fellowship of humanity in all its diversity and individuality. We recognise that we are part of nature and accept our responsibility for the impact we have on the rest of the natural world.

Humanists strive to be rational. We are convinced that the solutions to the world’s problems lie in human reason, and action. We advocate the application of science and free inquiry to these problems, remembering that while science provides the means, human values must define the ends. We seek to use science and technology to enhance human well-being, and never callously or destructively.

Humanists strive for fulfilment in their lives. We value all sources of individual joy and fulfilment that harm no other. We therefore treasure artistic creativity and imagination and recognise the transforming power of literature, music, and the visual and performing arts. We cherish the beauty of the natural world and its potential to bring wonder, awe, and tranquillity. We esteem the quest for knowledge, and the humility, wisdom, and insight it bestows.

Humanism meets the widespread demand for a source of meaning and purpose. We are committed to the unfettered expression and exchange of ideas, and seek to cooperate with people of different beliefs who share our values. We are confident that humanity has the potential to solve the problems that confront us, through free inquiry, science, sympathy, and imagination in the furtherance of peace and human flourishing.’

There is no humanist holy book. Instead, humanists believe that wisdom can be derived from a wide source of written material, including fiction, poetry, philosophy, and science. They also recognise the value of many humanist ideals reflected in the writings of the holy books of various world faiths. 

Humanists understand the value of practices such as meditation and mindfulness, but it is left to the individual whether they wish to practice these. 

There are no prescribed practices. Humanists generally live the same lives as any other non-religious members of their community.

Many humanists prefer not to hold weddings, funerals or naming ceremonies which are conducted by religious organisations. They therefore often choose for them to be conducted by a humanist celebrant, at a non-religious venue.   

Humanists do not celebrate festivals such as Christmas and Diwali from a religious point of view. They do however enjoy meeting with friends and family at the same times as various faith festivals to celebrate, relax and reflect. It is well accepted that many modern religious festivals have a long history, and have often grown out of secular festivals that marked astronomical events and/or the changing of the seasons.   

There are no individual positions of authority within the Sikh community, as a protection against egoism and corruption. The only role of note is that of the Granthi, who reads from the Guru Granth Sahib in the gurdwara and officiates at ceremonies such as weddings and funerals. The gurdwara is the focus of Sikh community life. One of the most significant things that happens there is the langar or ‘Guru’s kitchen’, where vegetarian food is served free of charge to everyone, sitting as equals – including anyone in attendance who does not happen to be Sikh. This is one practical way in which Sikhs demonstrate their belief in equality, generosity and charity without paying heed to differences of religion, caste, wealth, age, gender or social standing.

Sikhs use their festivals as occasions on which to rededicate their faith. One such is Bandi Chhorh Divas (which coincides with Diwali, a traditional Indian celebration also observed, in different ways, by Hindus and Jains). This marks the anniversary of the sixth guru, Guru Hargobind (1595-1644) rescuing 52 Hindu kings from imprisonment in a celebrated act of courage. Gurpurbs are feast days honouring the birth, martyrdom or life events of the Gurus (e.g. the birthday of Guru Nanak, traditionally celebrated in November), as well as the installation of the Guru Granth Sahib. Vaisakhi (or Baisakhi) is the Sikh new year, celebrated on the date of a long-established harvest festival in the Punjab. It is of particular significance for commemorating the founding of the Khalsa in 1699.

It is impossible to give a definite figure for the number of humanists worldwide. Many people who share humanist views may never have even come across the word. However, as societies become more secular, humanist groups are increasing in membership. Humanists International has affiliated groups all over the world. 

In many countries atheism is still regarded as blasphemy, which is a threat to growing humanism in those particular places.

The main organisation representing Humanism in this country is Humanists UK, with 100,000 members. The 2021 Census showed that those identifying as ‘no religion’ had risen to 37% (up from 25% in the previous census 10 years earlier). Obviously, it cannot be assumed that all those who ticked ‘no religion’ share humanist ideals, but it is evident that a large percentage of the population are moving away from traditional faith- based beliefs.

Humanists UK actively campaign for changes in UK legislation which discriminate against non-religious people. This often relates to the place of religion in education and in politics. It also supports international campaigns to prevent the persecution of non-religious people worldwide.  More information is available at https://humanists.uk/

November 2023 saw the launch of the Leicester Branch of Humanists UK. The branch offers the opportunity for local humanists to meet on a regular basis for a range of social activities and to exchange information and ideas relating to humanism. The branch is keen to work alongside other groups in the pursuance of shared ideals within Leicester’s diverse faith community.

Leicestershire has a number of humanist celebrants who are able to offer wedding, funeral and naming ceremonies for people who are not religious. 

University Hospitals Leicester was one of the first groups of hospitals to engage a humanist chaplain as part of their chaplaincy team. They are able to provide support for the growing number of non-religious patients. 

Finally, trained humanist volunteers respond to requests from local schools to deliver educational input on humanism within RE lessons. It is now a legal requirement that state schools include non-religious world views in their curriculum.  

Leicester Humanists March 2024