Secular humanism is a philosophical stance that emphasizes reason, ethics, and justice while rejecting supernatural beliefs. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable is pronounced as "seh", with the "e" sounding like the "e" in "set". The second syllable is pronounced as "kyoo", with the "u" sounding like the "u" in "put". The third syllable is pronounced as "lar", with the "a" sounding like the "a" in "car". The final syllable is pronounced as "hyoo-muh-niz-uhm".
Secular humanism refers to a philosophical and ethical worldview that emphasizes the potential of human beings to lead moral and meaningful lives without relying on religious beliefs or supernatural forces. It is a form of humanism that prioritizes reason, science, and critical thinking as the most effective approach to understanding and solving problems in the world.
At its core, secular humanism places human beings at the center of moral and ethical considerations, focusing on individual autonomy, freedom, and human dignity. It encourages individuals to develop their own personal values and ethical frameworks based on empathy, compassion, and the well-being of human society.
Secular humanism rejects the idea of divine revelation and religious dogma as sources of moral authority, instead advocating for a reliance on science, evidence-based reasoning, and a naturalistic understanding of the universe. It upholds the principles of secularism, advocating for the separation of religion and state, and the importance of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their beliefs.
Secular humanism also emphasizes the importance of ethical behavior and social responsibility, encouraging individuals to work towards improving the human condition, promoting human rights, and seeking social justice. It often emphasizes the responsibility of humans to care for the environment and work towards a sustainable future.
In summary, secular humanism is a worldview that promotes ethical and moral decision-making based on reason, compassion, and a critical examination of the natural world, without relying on religious or supernatural beliefs.
The word "secular" comes from the Latin word "saecularis", which means "worldly" or "pertaining to this age or world". In its original usage, it referred to something existing or occurring in this world, rather than in a religious or spiritual realm. Over time, "secular" came to represent a separation between religious and non-religious matters and the absence of religious influence in certain domains.
The term "humanism" stems from the Italian word "umanista", coined during the Renaissance, which was a cultural and intellectual movement focused on the study of human interests and abilities. The Renaissance humanists emphasized the value and potential of human beings, placing great importance on the study of literature, history, arts, and sciences.