Humanist Ethics

Humanism as a life stance is comprehensive touching on every part of our lives, for those who call themselves Humanists it provides meaning, purpose and a framework for making ethical life choices. Most Humanists would indentify with at least some of the following principles and elements:

• Humanism is a naturalistic philosophy and thus rejects belief in supernatural beings or principles.
  
• Humanists rely on the scientific method, reasoning and critical thinking to form beliefs and opinions. We hold that gaining knowledge is a continuing process reliant upon observation, evaluation and revision.
  
• We uphold the right to individual freedom, autonomy and privacy, so long as the rights of others are respected.
  
• We consider other members of the human family as equal in dignity and value.
  
• We believe we should act in a fair, just and honest way towards others, respecting their right to live peaceful, healthy and productive lives.
  
• Humanists hold that a democratic and secular government is best suited to respecting the pluralistic and diverse nature of our society and fostering individual freedom.
  
• We are committed to the use of reasoned argument and peaceful adjudication in settling conflict.
  
• We oppose discrimination based on gender, sex, race, ethnicity or system of belief.
  
• Many Humanists believe that whenever possible we should endeavour to minimise the suffering of animals.
  
• We recognise the importance of sustaining the natural ecosystem and protecting the biosphere and environment from degradation and destruction.  

Humanism as a life stance is comprehensive touching on every part of our lives, for those who call themselves Humanists it provides meaning, purpose and a framework for making ethical life choices. Most Humanists would indentify with at least some of the following principles and elements:

• Humanism is a naturalistic philosophy and thus rejects belief in supernatural beings or principles.
  
• Humanists rely on the scientific method, reasoning and critical thinking to form beliefs and opinions. We hold that gaining knowledge is a continuing process reliant upon observation, evaluation and revision.
  
• We uphold the right to individual freedom, autonomy and privacy, so long as the rights of others are respected.
  
• We consider other members of the human family as equal in dignity and value.
  
• We believe we should act in a fair, just and honest way towards others, respecting their right to live peaceful, healthy and productive lives.
  
• Humanists hold that a democratic and secular government is best suited to respecting the pluralistic and diverse nature of our society and fostering individual freedom.
  
• We are committed to the use of reasoned argument and peaceful adjudication in settling conflict.
  
• We oppose discrimination based on gender, sex, race, ethnicity or system of belief.
  
• Many Humanists believe that whenever possible we should endeavour to minimise the suffering of animals.
  
• We recognise the importance of sustaining the natural ecosystem and protecting the biosphere and environment from degradation and destruction.