Introduction
Humanism is a philosophical and ethical approach that emphasises reason, compassion, and the value of human life. Humanists believe humans can create a just and fulfilling world through their efforts.
The Humanist Manifesto articulates humanism’s core beliefs and values. Since its inception in 1933, it has undergone significant revisions, each reflecting the zeitgeist of its time while maintaining a commitment to rational thought, scientific inquiry, and human-centred ethics.
A Humanist Manifesto (1933)
The original Humanist Manifesto, published in 1933, emerged during great social and intellectual upheaval. Authored by Roy Wood Sellars and Raymond Bragg, along with 34 other signatories, this first iteration laid the groundwork for a new, secular worldview.
Key points of the 1933 manifesto included:
- A rejection of supernatural and theistic beliefs
- Affirmation of a naturalistic philosophy
- Recognition of human beings as an integral part of nature
- Emphasis on social and economic justice
- Advocacy for a Shared World Community
Interestingly, this first manifesto retained some quasi-religious language, referring to humanism as a ‘new religion’ and using terms like ‘religious humanism’. This reflects the document’s historical context, as many of its signatories were Unitarian ministers seeking to reconcile their faith with scientific progress.
A Humanist Manifesto l has been criticised for being overly optimistic and utopian, particularly in its assumptions about human nature. While it called for global cooperation and a peaceful society, the realities of World War II, the rise of totalitarian regimes, and the growing complexities of the modern world made its ideals seem somewhat naïve.
Humanist Manifesto ll (1973)
Forty years after the original publication, a second manifesto, authored primarily by Paul Kurtz and Edwin H. Wilson, was released. This updated version reflected significant shifts in societal norms and scientific understanding.
Humanist Manifesto II diverged from its predecessor in several key ways:
- It abandoned the religious language of the first manifesto
- It emphasised individual freedom and social responsibility
- It addressed environmental concerns
- It advocated for global governance and cooperation
- It promoted sexual freedom and reproductive rights
This iteration also acknowledged the potential dangers of science and technology when misused, a concern that had become more pressing after the two world wars and the onset of the Cold War.
Humanist Manifesto II remains a landmark document in secular humanism. It advocates for a world where human dignity and moral responsibility are paramount.
Humanism and Its Aspirations: Humanist Manifesto lll (2003)
As we entered the 21st century, a third manifesto was published, subtitled ‘Humanism and Its Aspirations’. This version, more concise than its predecessors, distilled humanist philosophy into six primary themes:
- Knowledge through reason and science: The manifesto reaffirmed humanism’s commitment to rational inquiry and empirical evidence as the best methods for understanding the world.
- Ethical values derived from human needs: It emphasised that moral values should be grounded in human experience and welfare rather than supernatural or dogmatic sources.
- Life fulfilment through human development: The document stressed the importance of personal growth, creativity, and the pursuit of meaningful lives.
- Individual liberty balanced with social responsibility: It advocated for a society that protects individual freedoms whilst fostering a sense of communal obligation.
- Democracy and human rights: The manifesto championed democratic principles and universal human rights as essential components of a just society.
- Global responsibility: It called for recognising our shared humanity and the need for cooperative solutions to global challenges.
This latest iteration of the Humanist Manifesto reflected a more globalised worldview, acknowledging the interconnectedness of human societies and the shared challenges we face, such as climate change and economic inequality.
Closing thoughts
The Humanist Manifestos represent an evolving understanding of humanism, reflecting the changing social, political, and ethical landscapes over the last century. From the idealism of the first manifesto to the pragmatism of the second and the inclusivity of the third, these documents have provided a framework for a life rooted in reason, compassion, and responsibility.
As the world continues to face new technological, environmental, or social challenges, the principles outlined in the Humanist Manifestos remain relevant. They remind us of the power of human agency, the importance of empathy, and the potential for collective action to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world. In a time when ideological polarisation and global crises seem ever more pressing, the humanist vision of a society guided by reason, science, and compassion offers a hopeful path forward for humanity.
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