SA Secualr Society member, Jessie-Lee Smith examines trends in religious and non-religious beliefs in South Africa. Historically, religion has been integral to South Africa’s identity, influencing its socio-political landscape. For example, during apartheid, the ruling National Party leaned heavily on Calvinist theology from the Dutch Reformed Church to justify racial segregation. This rhetoric was woven Read more
South Africa’s Religious Landscape Read More »
In a world where religious beliefs have traditionally provided answers to life’s most profound questions, those of us who embrace a secular worldview often find ourselves navigating these existential conundrums without the comfort of divine explanations. Yet, far from leaving us adrift, this perspective offers a rich, nuanced approach to understanding our place in the
Tackling Life’s Big Questions: A Non-Religious Approach Read More »
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
The Evolution of the Humanist Manifesto: A Journey Through Secular Thought Read More »
Andre Fourie writes the first of a series of articles about secular parenting. As the new Government of National Unity works to improve our basic education outcomes, our new administration should grab the opportunity to formalise the teaching of one of the most important and fundamental skills in the modern age: critical thinking. Quite simply,
Critical Thinking is our Mental Immune System against Misinformation & Superstition Read More »
African Humanism, often referred to as Ubuntu in Southern Africa, represents a unique philosophical perspective that emphasises the interconnectedness of all people and the importance of communal relationships. Rooted deeply in the cultural and social fabric of African societies, African Humanism centres on the idea that one’s humanity is affirmed and realised through relationships with
African Humanism: A Philosophical and Cultural Exploration Read More »
This review of the life and work of Daniel Dennett was written for the Secular Society of South Africa by Barrie van Zyl. Daniel Dennett, an American philosopher and cognitive scientist, well known for his support of atheism and secularism, died on 19 April 2024 at the age of 82. He remains one of the
Celebrating the legacy of Daniel Dennett (1942 – 2024 Read More »
Many people recognise the power of non-religious ceremonies. They have moved away from organised religion. However, by nature they still feel the need for ceremony and ritual to mark life’s milestones. There are many reasons for this. Secularism Some people feel that important life events should be marked and celebrated without references to any religious
Embracing Meaningful Moments: The Power of Non-Religious Ceremonies Read More »
In South Africa, where faith communities weave a vibrant tapestry, the line between religion education (RE) and religious education (religious instruction) gets blurry. The South African Secular Society (SASS) believes that only one belongs in public schools. Religion Education: A Kaleidoscope of Faiths Imagine a classroom buzzing with curiosity about Hindu Diwali celebrations, Buddhist meditation
Religion Education vs. Religious Education in South Africa Read More »
A paper presented by Rick Raubenheimer, President, on behalf of the South African Secular Society (SASS) at the Conference on Religious Freedom in South Africa, “Freedom of Religion or Belief in a Democracy”, at The University of Johannesburg (UJ), 11-12 April 2024. Kindly address all correspondence in this regard to the President of SASS at
Atheists in Post-Apartheid South Africa: Discrimination and Progress Read More »
