humanism

What is the opposite of humanism? Here is what we hold, with its meaning and related words.

Noun — A way of thinking that bases morality and meaning on human reason, evidence and compassion rather than on religious belief.

Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A way of thinking that bases morality and meaning on human reason, evidence and compassion rather than on religious belief.

“Her humanism led her to argue that ethics needs no supernatural foundation.”

secularism freethinking rationalism humanitarianism

2. noun

Concern for the welfare, dignity and potential of people in general.

“The novel is remembered for its warmth and its unforced humanism.”

compassion humaneness benevolence

How to use humanism

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

secular humanism Renaissance humanism liberal humanism humanist values

Formal; the sense intended usually depends on whether the context is philosophy, history or literary criticism.

Etymology

Formed from Latin humanus meaning 'human', by way of humanist, a term for a scholar of classical letters.

Full origin of humanism →

Frequently asked questions

Is humanism a religion?

No. Humanism has no god, no scripture and no doctrine of an afterlife. It is a philosophical outlook, although organised humanist groups do offer ceremonies for weddings and funerals.

What is the difference between humanism and atheism?

Atheism is simply the absence of belief in a god and says nothing about how to live. Humanism goes further and offers a positive ethical position grounded in reason, evidence and human wellbeing.

What is the difference between humanism and humanitarianism?

Humanism is a philosophy about the basis of meaning and morality. Humanitarianism is practical work to relieve human suffering, such as disaster relief, and it is compatible with any belief system.

People also searched

compassion secularism freethinking benevolence rationalism humaneness

Nearby words

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