ARE YOU A HUMANIST?

HUMANIST VALUES AND VISION

Humanists share many values:

• human dignity and rights for all
• human joy, love and shared happiness
• free inquiry and open mindedness
• human creativity and inventiveness
• the reduction of human suffering and cruelty
• an open, just and caring society
• we see no plausible reason for belief in any god or supernatural being
• we view human life as a natural part of evolution
• we lead a full and useful life without religion
• we live once and must do all we can to make the best of that life, for our own happiness and for the good of others
• human morality is not founded on religious teachings but on human nature and experience.

Humanism is not just a theoretical outlook, it is concerned with all practical aspects of our lives, including the emotional and aesthetic. Humanism reaches beyond any barriers of race and culture, and is a basis for world community.

Humanism has developed over many centuries, and is especially relevant today. It is estimated that more than a quarter of the British population is non-religious. Humanism is a way of working together towards a better society; it is a positive step beyond atheism.

Britain continues to need humanists to provide a rational response. Only humans can solve human problems.

WHAT DO HUMANISTS DO?

Ceremonies
Our trained officiants conduct non-religious weddings, funerals and baby namings throughout Britain. These are growing in popularity as more people choose to avoid the hypocrisy of turning to religion only for those rites of passage. Humanist ceremonies are personal, dignified and caring. They are widely respected by people from many faiths, as well as those without religion. The BHA trains a network of officiants, runs a national ceremonies helpline, publishes practical guidebooks to help devise ceremonies, and campaigns for full legal recognition for humanist marriage.

Campaigns
The BHA researches religious privilege and is campaigning to separate Church and State. We believe in freedom of belief, but do not support political power being given to organised religion in Britain.

Education
Teachers regularly approach us for information on Humanism and moral issues that they can use in the classroom. Giving children the opportunity to think out their responses to moral questions and dilemmas is vital if we are to help them develop a personal moral code, and act responsibly. Humanists believe that every child should be given the opportunity to flourish.

A voice of reason
Humanists base their views on rational thought and human understanding, and their opinions are not pre-formed by the influence of supernatural dogma. The BHA has commented and lobbied on issues such as abortion, voluntary euthanasia, homosexuality and capital punishment. We are now examining other contemporary moral questions.

A network of members and supporters
Our members and supporters receive the bimonthly newsletter “Humanist News” which contains a lively exchange of views since Humanism recognises the complexity of right and wrong. The BHA has an annual conference with workshops and lectures united by a relevant theme, and with a chance to meet like-minded people. Local groups also organise talks and social events.

Are you a Humanist Issue 139 September 1998