Humanism is a political ideology that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively. It is a democratic and ethical life stance that affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. Humanism stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethic based on human and other natural values in the spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities. It is not theistic, and it does not accept supernatural views of reality.
The roots of humanism can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome, where philosophers like Protagoras declared "Man is the measure of all things," and Marcus Tullius Cicero wrote about a universal human nature. However, the term "humanism" was not coined until the 19th century. It was first used by German scholar and educational reformer Friedrich Immanuel Niethammer to describe a program of study distinct from traditional ecclesiastical schools, focusing on the study of the humanities, including grammar, rhetoric, history, poetry, and moral philosophy.
During the Renaissance, humanism emerged as a significant intellectual movement in Europe. Renaissance humanists, such as Petrarch and Erasmus, sought to create a citizenry able to speak and write with eloquence and clarity, thus capable of engaging in the civic life of their communities and persuading others to virtuous and prudent actions. They believed that the study of classical literature led to a better understanding of human nature and allowed individuals to improve themselves and their societies.
In the 20th century, humanism evolved into a more explicitly political and philosophical stance. The Humanist Manifesto, first published in 1933 and updated in 1973 and 2003, outlines the philosophical principles of humanism, including a commitment to science, reason, and human rights. Today, humanism often implies a secular or non-religious stance, although there are also religious humanists who integrate humanist principles with their religious beliefs.
Humanism has influenced a variety of political movements, from liberal democracy and social democracy to various forms of socialism and anarchism. It has been a major influence in the development of human rights and international law, as well as in the promotion of social justice, environmental sustainability, and global peace. Despite its diverse influences and interpretations, the core principle of humanism remains the same: a commitment to the value and potential of all human beings, and the belief that we have the power and responsibility to shape our own lives and the world around us.
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