How to Become a Humanist

Last Updated: March 28, 2019 Approved

Humanism is an ethical perspective that emphasizes human dignity, concerns, and capabilities, especially rationality. A humanist is one who attaches prime importance to humans, rather than other entities such as the supernatural or authorities.^{[1]
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Research source
Compact Oxford English Dictionary. Oxford University Press. 2007. "humanism n. 1 a rationalistic system of thought attaching prime importance to human rather than divine or supernatural matters. 2 a Renaissance cultural movement that turned away from medieval scholasticism and revived interest in ancient Greek and Roman thought." Typically, abridgments of this definition omit all senses except #1, such as in the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary, Collins Essential English Dictionary, and Webster's Concise Dictionary. New York: RHR Press. 2001. pp. 177.} While there are many schools of humanistic thoughts, here are some general guidelines to help you become a humanist.

Steps

1
Seek knowledge. Most humanists such as Corliss Lamont or Carl Sagan agree that humanity must seek the truth through reasoning and use of the scientific method to test hypotheses.
2
Deal with the practical aspects of life, and do not entertain metaphysical issues. For example, the existence or nonexistence of immortal beings is outside the realm of humanism, which concerns itself with mortal human only.^{[2]
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Research source
Lamont, Corliss (1997). The Philosophy of Humanism, Eighth Edition. Humanist Press: Amherst, New York. pp. 252–253. ISBN 0-931779-07-3. "Conscience, the sense of right and wrong and the insistent call of one's better, more idealistic, more social-minded self, is a social product. Feelings of right and wrong that at first have their locus within the family gradually develop into a pattern for the tribe or city, then spread to the larger unit of the nation, and finally from the nation to humanity as a whole. Humanism sees no need for resorting to supernatural explanations, or sanctions at any point in the ethical process."}
3
Be optimistic. A humanist believes that through hard work, humans can do good and make life better for others.
4
Love others, and show outgoing concern for humanity. Focus on the present, not the past or the future. Aim to do good and live well now, and leave the world a better place for posterity. The welfare of humanity is the primary concern for a humanist.
5
Be a free thinker. Because humans are the focus of humanism, a humanist will strive to determine right and wrong for himself. Avoid undue influence from others, superstitions, and prejudices.
6
Work out your happiness. For a humanist, happiness is achieved by doing good and living well.^{[3]
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Research source
"Nicomachean Ethics", (1095a15-22) by Aristotle} Do good unto others, as you would have others do unto you.

Community Q&A

Question

How old do I need to be to become a humanist?

Community Answer

There is no age requirement. Humanism is an ideology. The moment you share that ideology, you are part of it.
Question

What are their beliefs?

David Joiner

Community Answer

Humanism isn't a religion, and there is no deity nor guidelines. A humanist is simply someone who believes that we as a race will create our own destiny. Extreme humanists seek science to evolve humanity, and would love to volunteer for anything that progresses longevity.
Question

Are there any rules about what you can eat or not eat?

Community Answer

Humanism is an ideology, not a religion. It's about what you believe, not who you believe in. Eat whatever you want, except other humans.
Question

Can I have humanist views and still follow a religion?

Prashant Shah

Community Answer

Yes definitely. In fact, each religion is meant for cultivating true and complete humanist views.
Question

Can I be a humanist if I am a student?

Community Answer

Of course you can. Everyone who has a mind of their own can have an ideology. It is not limited by age, gender, social status, etc.
Question

Can I be a humanist if I'm a misanthrope?

David Joiner

Community Answer

Yes. As a matter of fact, your dislike of humanity would quite likely be the pivotal point in wanting to improve humanity, which is the primary goal of a humanist.
Question

Can I be raised religious and become a humanist as an adult?

Community Answer

Yes, of course you can.
Question

Do humanists value human life without exceptions?

Community Answer

Human life is what drives humanism, so in essence, they value human life above all else without exception.
Question

Are even the lives of our most bitter enemies valuable?

Tom De Backer

Top Answerer

Read the poem "No Man Is An Island" by John Donne. Yes, every life is valuable, simply because it is alive. If you step on a bug, then with microsurgery put every atom back in its original place, it will still be dead. You are a part of mankind, we are all in this together, and the loss of even a single life is a loss for us all, no matter whether it's friend or foe.
Question

Are there gatherings, as there are among religion-based believers? If so, could you possibly give me such contacts as I need to get in touch with them? I live in London, UK.

MichelleF2

Community Answer

Yes, humanist groups exist in many countries around the world. In the UK specifically, there is the Humanists of the UK group, who have gatherings in many cities including London.