Secular Humanism is a term which has come into use in the last thirty years. Because of this statement, I decided to do some research on it. The most substantial resource I found on this topic was the book, Beliefs: Secular Humanism.

Upon reading this book, I found that most Humanists are atheists or agnostics, but obviously not all are (Candace 2). It is also debated whether or not it is a religion. Some Secular Humanists are religious, while others are political or social. They believe in a naturalistic standpoint on life. They commit to the use of critical reason, factual evidence, and scientific methods of inquiry in seeking solutions to human problems and answers to important human questions (Candace 13). Most do not rely on faith or believe in supernaturalism. This means that a belief in a deity and/or afterlife is not relevant. Most do not recognize an afterlife or spiritual existence. Their concept of evil/ for doing wrong is found within the scientific method. They also study sociology, psychology, and criminology to explain why wrong occurs. The scientific method is also most respected as the means for revealing the mysteries of the origins of the universe and life (Candace 16). Since someone will always ask “Why do bad things happen to good people?”, they state that it is not a spiritual reason but rather a matter of human vulnerability to misfortune, illness, and victimization. Although they do not recognize an afterlife, they do think it is paramount to realize one’s personal potential and to work for the betterment of humanity through ethical consciousness and social works (Candace 16). This being said, they are known for endorsing elective abortions, working for equality for homosexuals and genders, using a secular approach to divorce and remarriage, working to end poverty, promoting peace and nonviolence, and trying to protect the environment (Candace 21). Unlike some other groups’ beliefs that do not recognize in an afterlife, they do not believe or that each and every person is capable of living up to the humanist ideals of rationality and morality. The ultimate goal is human flourishing; making life better for all humans (Candace 12). Even among humanists who do believe in some sort of an afterlife, the focus is on doing good and living well in the here and now, and leaving the world better for those who come after, not on suffering through life to be rewarded afterward (Candace 12).

Although I do not think this philosophy is for me, I do think it gives substantial reasoning to live by. Also, whether or not they choose to believe in an afterlife or not, they still provide a reason for being here. That last statement, to me, is the most important thing in life.

Candace, Joey. Beliefs: Secular Humanism. Richmond, VA: Brooke's Publishing, 2005. Print.