A Brief Outline of Humanism Humanism is a view of life which has its roots in the teachings of ancient Greek and Chinese philosophers such as Epicurus and Confucius. It is based on the belief that human problems can be solved only by human beings and not by reliance on some supposed supernatural power. Since Humanists are agnostic or atheist, they believe in the scientific explanation for human existence, namely evolution. Humanists believe that human beings have to face their problems with their own moral and intellectual resources, using the accumulated knowledge and experience of humankind.
Humanist morality is based on concern for human dignity, welfare, happiness and fulfilment.
Humanists see moral values not as edicts from a god, but as principles upon which good human relationships depend. Such principles include being truthful and honest, accepting responsibility, co-operation for the common good and caring for others. These basic human values lie at the heart of societies. They are the conditions for social evolution. Humanists try to follow the Golden Rule 'do as you would be done by', a precept taught by atheistic philosophers hundreds of years before Christ.