The Kingston Humanist Association is a resource and community group for people who share the philosophy or worldview of Humanism. There are many definitions of Humanism so let's be specific about the one we are talking about: HUMANISM:
- Humanism is committed to rational thought and responsible behavior that will enhance the quality of life on this earth.
- Humanists believe that human beings are part of the natural world with all other forms of life, and that nature is indifferent to our individual existence.
- Humanists are convinced that the meaning and purpose of life must be found in living not in dying.
- Humanists believe that moral values are neither divinely revealed nor the special property of any religious tradition, that they must be found by humans through the use of their natural reason.
- Humanists have faith in the human capacity to choose good over evil without the expectation of reward or punishment in another life.
- Humanists encourage moral excellence, positive relationships and human dignity; compassion, cooperation, environmental sustainability, and community.
This is secular Humanism, not to be confused with the various forms of religious Humanism. Although there is overlap between these two branches of Humanism, the religious one believes in some form of supernatural deity and the secular one does not.
