Tenets of Humanism: Intro to Naturalism

Are you new to humanism? Want to explore humanism more deeply? Or are you interested in learning how to explain humanism to others? If any of these apply, then this three-part series surveying the basic tenets of humanism is for you.

Participants are encouraged to attend all three of the sessions, but folks are welcome to come as they are able. Each session will provide an overview of one salient aspect of humanism followed by questions and discussion.

Session One: Intro to Naturalism (August 27, 2022 @1pm)

We begin this series on Humanism by looking at the naturalist worldview which lays the foundation for modern day humanism. We will review the scientific explanations and philosophical developments over the course of centuries that changed the focus of our attention from the supernatural to the natural world. We will also consider non-western influences on the contemporary naturalist world-view as well as our ever-deepening understanding of humankind’s place in the cosmos.

Please join us for an overview of contemporary humanism as understood and practiced by a growing number of people affiliated with the American Humanist Association, the American Ethical Union, and Humanists International.

Session Two: Intro to Meaning and Purpose (Sept. 3, 2022 @ 1pm)

We are the products of an un-designed, evolutionary process. What meaning or purpose can there be to our lives? Do our lives really matter? How can intentional community engender meaning and mattering? How do we create meaningful community? In the second session of this series, we will look at how a Humanist lifestance — with its naturalist worldview, ethical commitments, and community spirit – informs and contributes to our experience of meaning and purpose.

Session Three: Ethics without Religion (Sept. 10, 2022 @ 3pm)

In this session we will focus on the ethical imperative of humanism and disentangle ethics from religion. We will explore the evolutionary origins of moral instincts and the philosophical moral theories that have influenced the humanist outlook — across the globe. In addition, a contemporary secular process for ethical deliberation will be put forward. Come explore the heart of humanism.

This event is sponsored by HumanistsMN. If you are not yet a member, please consider joining to help us cover our costs and build the humanist movement. Not ready to join? Donations are gratefully accepted! Join or donate at humanistsmn.org.

To register or comment on this event, view listing on Meetup.com.