Religion Series; Humanism

[O'nus]

Humanism + Wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanism Crux: Humanism dictates that the most important factor is humans and humane interaction. The propagation of human rationality, reason, ethical treatment, and sympathy is encouraged. All religions can be humanist. However, it is fully grasped by the non-theists as humanism sets the humans as the center of rational instead of a God, spirit, or other religious ideals. Humanism is also easily mis-interpreted as Utilitarianism. However, utilitarianism logic can be utilized by humanists. It appears to me that the best ethical doctrine of humanists is the flourishing of humanity. I relate this in my "What is the o'nus?" thread as humanism does not necessarily have a gospel. Humanism is often best described as the "Golden Rule"; treat others the way you want to be treated. Background Beginning in the time of the 1800's, the term Humanist began as a more anti-clerical term to separate religious affairs from political or economical. This was a means to use the most economically efficient matters instead of the most religious ideal. Personally, I believe there may be a correlation between humanism and logical positivism. The American Humanist Association (AHA) was formed in 1941 as an education program to publicize humanism. In contemporary times, it is common for non-theists to embrace humanism. People, such as Richard Dawkins, suggested that non-theists alike ought to embrace the term. As non-theists, atheists, and ilk share the same common ethical ground, it is not uncommon for these people to also consider themselves a Humanist. + http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VxGMqKCcN6A Literature Civic Humanism: http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/humanism-civic/ Thomas Paine: http://www.amazon.com/Thomas-Paine-C...3151555&sr=8-1 - Considered a "father" of religious humanity Artwork Personally, I always view Humanism as the encapsulation of human reason and creativity. The greatest thinkers and scientists who embraces human reason rather than clerical authority. The greatest painting I can think of to represent this is the "School of Athens" by Raphael. Spoiler for School of Athens - by Raphael: The next favourite Humanist painting of mine is from Frans Hals. An impressionist painter, Frans Hals was a Dutch artist. Combining the ideal of portraits, impressionism, and humanism, I found his "A Man Holding a Skull" to perfectly symbolize Humanism. Spoiler for A Man Holding a Skull - Frans Hals: Music + The best is yet to come - Metal Gear Solid - Yes, it is from a game. Honestly, I have no personal justification or reason for this choice other than how it personally makes me feel. Hopefully, someone else will get this vibe. + Harmonica's Theme - from the movie "Once Upon a Time in the West" - This song represents death to me and the confrontations between men. Duels are just a symbol of the greater altercations that take place in humanity and we must embrace and learn from them. What do you think...? ~