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Introduction We believe in: the application of reason and science to the understanding of the universe and to the solving of human problems. an open and pluralistic society, where democracy and the separation of church and state are the best guarantees of protecting human rights. securing justice and fairness in society and eliminating discrimination and intolerance. showing love and respect for the planet Earth and all living things thereon, especially humankind. contributing to those less fortunate than ourselves, thus helping them become self-sufficient and able to enjoy the benefits of a decent life, including clean air and water, adequate food and health care, housing, education, and individual rights. treating all persons everywhere with dignity, respect, and friendliness. the common moral decencies: altruism, integrity, honesty, and responsibility. For other descriptions of humanist beliefs, check out the following resources: Definitions of Humanism Essays on Humanism The Affirmations of Humanism The Humanist Philosophy Frequently Asked Questions Are Humanists against belief in god(s)? Humanism is a positive philosophy, concerned with addressing human concerns without appealling to supernatural myths. While Humanists do not typically believe in god(s), they are not necessarily opposed to theism or religion. There are, however, aspects of god belief that are deleterious to individuals and society, and Humanist are against these aspects of theism, just as they would be against any belief or practice that proved harmful to humans or our world. What are the political views of Humanists? Humanists are as diverse a bunch as you will find anywhere. There are Humanists who are Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, Greens, or independents. There is no single political viewpoint that Humanists take, though Humanists are, by definition, supporters of democracy and human rights. Why do Humanists reject the importance of god(s) in daily affairs? In the history of humankind, god beliefs have sparked innumerable wars, lead to uncountable deaths, and stood in the way of positive social change. Religious views continue to divide nations and cultures, and attempts by religious groups to dominate political affairs disrupt past advances in liberty and threaten future advances in it. There is no evidence, either logical, social, or historical, to suggest that any supreme intelligence has even been involved in human affairs. The advances that have been made in science, medicine, culture, and government have all come from the work of humans dedicated to improving their world. Humanism's rejection of god beliefs is, more accurately, an embracing of human skill, intelligence, and compassion. Humanism is about focusing the energy of humanity on improving our common lot, rather than chasing and reinventing the same myths that have stood in the way of progress for thousands of years. How can Humanism give comfort in time of grief, since it offers no eternal life? Humanism offers comfort because it embraces what is most beautiful about life -- its preciousness. What persists after we are gone from this life is what we have left behind in our works and our interactions with others. Thus, we must focus our energies upon improving not just our own lot, but the lots of those around us, if our individual lives are to make a difference. Many religionists feel that the Humanist life is devoid of meaning. In fact, Humanists seek and create their own meaning in life. Through helping others, educating ourselves, and embracing art and literature, our lives are shaped into something that have value in and of themselves -- meaning is not given by some spirit in the sky, it is formed out of our own efforts. Since we have but one chance to find this meaning, and one chance to explore life, love, and passion, the preciousness of life lies inherently in its finiteness. Because Humanists recognize this, we are deeply committed to enjoying life here and now and increasing happiness for our fellow human beings. Corliss Lamont, one of Humanism's most respected contemporary philosophers, said, "The watchword of Humanism is happiness for all humanity in this existence as contrasted with salvation for the individual soul in a future existence and the glorification of a supernatural Supreme Being. Humanism urges us to accept freely and joyously the great boon of life and to realize that life in its own right and for its own sake can be as beautiful and splendid as any dream of immortality." For additional thoughts on this topic, read an essay from our newsletter called The Preciousness of Humanism.