Humanism

[Lulu]

I suppose you just live it SJ.

I do like it because I think we DO have enough knowledge, and it sounds like it more about being responsible for our own mistake and celebrating our achievements as humans....

[Aimz]

SJ - It does appeal to many. I don't actively "try" to incorporate Humanism into my life - I was brought up with these ethics and values so I just live it everyday without too much thought.

Lulu - You are spot on. It's about recognising that our actions as individuals have an impact on the world and we (as Humans) have to take reponsibilty for that. Humanists believe that there is no external divine agency between human beings and the physical environment in which they operate.

I have never believed in God, and to be honest I don't know much about the bible because I was never taught about it - however I have learned about ALL religions just out of plain curiosity. For me, I don't thank/blame a divine entity for my achievements and failures - I take full responsibility for these.

[krysalyss]

Interesting thanks AmyS

[Aimz]

I like the idea of it but from my own point of view the reason I wouldn't ascribe to humanism is because I don't feel I (or humans I guess) have enough knowledge and foresight to know what is ultimately best, we have made some huge mistakes, so I trust in a higher power.

There is a branch of Humanism called Christian Humanism. It is the belief that human freedom and individualism are intrinsic natural parts of, or are at least compatible with, Christian doctrine and practice. It is a philosophical union of Christian and humanist principles. So it is possible to combine both of them.

However, the word "Humanist" in it's single form rejects this.

[Aimz]

An article on ninemsn today...

Victorian state primary school students will soon be able to take religious education classes which teach there is no evidence God exists.

The Humanist Society of Victoria has developed a curriculum for primary pupils that the state government accreditation body says it intends to approve, The Sunday Age newspaper reported.

Accredited volunteers will be able to teach their philosophy in the class time allotted for religious instruction, the newspaper said.

As with lessons delivered by faith groups, parents will be able to request that their children do not participate.

"Atheistical parents will be pleased to hear that humanistic courses of ethics will soon be available in some state schools," Victorian Humanist Society president Stephen Stuart said.

The society does not consider itself to be a religious organisation and believes ethics have "no necessary connection with religion".

Humanists believe people are responsible for their own destiny and reject the notion of a supernatural force or God.

[Heaven]

There is about to be something on Sunrise about this, just heard them say something.

[Aimz]

Sunrise had a mini debate about whether or not Humanism should be given as an alternative to religious education. I think it's a fantastic idea! I remember when I was in primary school I chose not to attend RE classes and I, along with three other students, went to the principles office where we coloured and chatted and did nothing constructive.

I think it would be great for parents and students to have a choice - both teach good morals and ethics and both have the same goal for people to better themselves and be kinder to each other. At least those non religious students would still be learning.