noun

humanism

HYOO-muh-niz-uhm

Humanism (noun) means a way of thinking that bases morality and meaning on human reason, evidence and compassion rather than on religious belief. Example: “Her humanism led her to argue that ethics needs no supernatural foundation.”

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."

"The ceremony was conducted according to the principles of secular humanism."

historical The Renaissance intellectual movement that revived the study of classical Greek and Latin texts and put human achievement at the centre of learning.

"Italian humanism transformed how the ancient world was read and taught."

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

"The novel is remembered for its warmth and its unforced humanism."

How to Use Humanism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe belief that people can work out how to live well using reason and kindness rather than religion.

When to use it

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

Memory tip

Capitalise Renaissance humanism when naming the historical movement; leave the modern philosophical sense in lower case.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

humanitarianism humanities → humanist →

Common pairings

secular humanism Renaissance humanism liberal humanism humanist values

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “humanism” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ led her to argue that ethics needs no supernatural foundation.

Etymology

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

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

View more →

secularism freethinking rationalism compassion humaneness benevolence

Related Words

humanity est mercy ruth pity kindness sympathy compassion

Rhymes for humanism

organism mechanism hooliganism utilitarianism

See all rhymes for 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

humanity est mercy ruth pity kindness sympathy compassion