TEN GUIDING PRINCIPLES OF HUMANISM
- Humanism aims at the full
development of every human being.
- Humanists uphold the
broadest application of democratic principles in all human relationships.
- Humanists advocate the
use of scientific methods, both as a guide to distinguish fact from
fiction and to help develop beneficial and creative uses of science and
technology.
- Humanists affirm the
dignity of every person and the right of the individual to maximum
possible freedom compatible with the rights of others.
- Humanists call for the
continued improvement of society so that no one may be deprived of the
basic necessities of life, and for institutions and conditions to provide
every person with opportunities for developing their full potential.
- Humanists support the
development and extension of fundamental human freedoms, as expressed in
the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and supplemented
by UN International Covenants comprising the United Nations Bill of Human
Rights.
- Humanists advocate
peaceful resolution of conflicts between individuals, groups, and nations.
- The humanist ethic
encourages development of the positive potentialities in human nature, and
approves conduct based on a sense of responsibility to oneself and to all
other persons.
- Humanists affirm that
individual and social problems can only be resolved by means of human reason, intelligent effort,
critical thinking joined with compassion and a spirit of empathy for all
living beings.
- Humanists affirm that
human beings are completely a part of nature, and that our survival is
dependent upon a healthy planet that provides us and all other forms of
life with a sustainable environment.