Skip to Main Content
Research Guides

Introduction

Humanism began in Italy in the 14th century as a literary and philosophical movement that recognizes the value and dignity of man, and measures all things against the potential and limitations of humans. Humanists support tolerance toward all points of view. The term has become highly politicized in the late 20th century, primarily by religious conservatives who charge that humanistic tenants are anti-religious and lead to the destruction of traditional values and moral standards.

Web Sites

 

  • Council for Secular Humanism
    This site defines secular humanism and provides links to a number of useful publications, events, websites, and regional groups.  

     

  • International Humanist Party 

     

  • The Humanist
    The Humanist applies Humanism (in its terms, a naturalistic and democratic outlook informed by science, inspired by art, and motivated by compassion) to broad areas of social and personal concern. This website provides access to past and present achieved issues of The Humanist.  

     

Materials in the UW Libraries

  • Free Inquiry
    Suzzallo/Allen Stacks
    BL2700 F77

    Published by the Council for Democratic and Secular Humanism, this quarterly typically focuses on one major issue and publishes a collection of pro an con essays on that issue.

     

  • The Humanist
    Suzzallo/Allen Stacks
    B821.A1 H8

    The Humanist publishes current events articles that have a humanist outlook, but also publishes opposing opinions in an effort to provide a forum for alternative view points.