Category: Humanism

The Power of Empathy

Continuing our exploration of the Ten Commitments, I take a look at empathy and it’s power to connect people in powerfull and lasting ways.

In today’s fast-paced world, where digital screens often mediate our interactions, the concept of empathy, understanding and sharing the feelings of others, has never been more important. But what exactly does empathy mean? More than just feeling sympathy for someone else’s struggles, empathy is about putting yourself in their shoes, seeing the world through their eyes, and responding with care and understanding.

In this post, we will explore the importance of empathy in our personal relationships, in our communities, and in society as a whole. We’ll also delve into how cultivating empathy can lead to greater connection, communication, and positive change.

What Is Empathy?

Empathy can be broken down into three primary components:

  • Cognitive Empathy: The ability to understand another person’s thoughts and perspective. It’s the “getting inside someone else’s head” and seeing the world from their vantage point.
  • Emotional Empathy: The capacity to actually feel what another person is feeling. If you’ve ever cried with a friend going through a tough time or felt the joy of someone achieving their dreams, that’s emotional empathy at work.
  • Compassionate Empathy: This is a blend of emotional and cognitive empathy, allowing individuals to connect deeply with others while maintaining emotional boundaries.

While cognitive and emotional empathy are important, compassionate empathy is where real change happens. This form of empathy does not just acknowledge the pain of others, it actively seeks to alleviate it.

Why Is Empathy Important?

Deepening Personal Connections

Empathy is the cornerstone of any meaningful relationship. Whether it’s with family, friends, or a romantic partner, the ability to empathize with each other’s experiences, thoughts, and feelings fosters deeper connections. It creates a safe space for vulnerability, where both parties feel seen and heard.

In the absence of empathy, relationships can feel shallow, distant, or disconnected. But when empathy is present, we feel more understood and less alone in our struggles and triumphs.

Enhancing Communication

Effective communication does not just mean talking; it involves listening—listening with an open mind and heart. Empathy enables us to listen actively, without judgment or interruption. When we understand the emotions behind someone’s words, we can respond more thoughtfully, and avoid misunderstandings that often lead to conflict.

For example, in a heated disagreement, it’s easy to focus solely on getting your point across. But when we empathize with the other person’s position, we can recognize their pain, frustrations, or hopes, which can defuse tension and lead to more productive conversations.

Building Inclusive Communities

Empathy helps create a sense of belonging and inclusion. In diverse communities, it’s easy to feel isolated or “othered,” especially if you don’t share the same background or experiences. However, when we take the time to listen and empathize with those who are different from us, we break down barriers. We begin to see common humanity rather than focusing on differences.

In a workplace setting, empathy plays a critical role in fostering diversity and inclusion. By understanding and acknowledging the unique challenges faced by colleagues—whether those challenges are related to race, gender, socioeconomic status, or personal hardships—we create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

Cultivating Empathy

The good news is that empathy is not an innate trait reserved for a select few, it’s a skill that anyone can develop. Here are a few strategies to help you cultivate greater empathy in your life:

  • Listen Actively: Pay attention when others speak. Don’t just listen to respond—listen to understand. Make eye contact, nod, and validate their emotions. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited advice.
  • Ask Questions: Show genuine curiosity about others’ experiences. Ask open-ended questions that invite people to share their thoughts and feelings. Phrases like “How did that make you feel?” or “What was going through your mind at that moment?” encourage deeper conversation.
  • Put Yourself in Someone Else’s Shoes: Imagine what it’s like to walk in someone else’s life. Whether it’s a friend going through a breakup, a colleague dealing with stress, or a stranger facing discrimination, taking a moment to mentally step into their world can help you respond with greater compassion.
  • Practice Empathy in Small Acts: Small gestures—like offering a kind word, being patient with others, or helping a colleague with their workload—can have a big impact. These acts of empathy not only improve others’ lives but also cultivate a culture of understanding in your community or workplace.
  • Be Mindful of Your Own Emotions: Self-awareness is crucial for practicing empathy. The more in touch you are with your own emotions, the better you’ll be at recognizing and understanding the emotions of others. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or journaling can help you develop this self-awareness.

Empathy Matters Now More Than Ever

In a world where division, isolation, and conflict often seem to dominate the headlines, empathy is more important than ever. It has the power to break down walls, heal wounds, and create more harmonious relationships in our personal lives, workplaces, and communities.

Empathy is not just a skill; it’s a way of life. It’s about choosing to see others as people, not problems. It’s about listening, understanding, and caring. In a world that’s often focused on productivity, efficiency, and individual success, empathy reminds us that the most important thing we can do is to connect with each other as fellow human beings.

So, whether you’re navigating a difficult conversation, leading a team, or simply offering a listening ear, remember that empathy is one of the most powerful tools we have to make the world a better place. Start small, and over time, you’ll see the profound impact it can have on both your own life and the lives of those around you.

Peace and Social Justice: A Humanist Perspective

Continuing our exploration of the Ten Commitments, I take a look at Peace and Social Justice. True peace involves an intense commitment to social justice and affirms the human rights and personal autonomy of all people.

In an age marked by global conflict, deep social divides, and systemic inequality, the call for peace and social justice resonates more urgently than ever. From the humanist perspective, these are not abstract ideals or distant dreams—they are essential components of a moral, meaningful life rooted in reason, compassion, and shared humanity.

Humanism

Humanism is a worldview that emphasizes human dignity, autonomy, and interconnectedness. It relies on reason, evidence, and empathy—not dogma or divine authority—to shape ethical behavior. In this light, peace and social justice are not optional extras, but moral imperatives. They are how we build a society where every person can thrive.

Humanists reject fatalism and apathy. They believe that human beings have the capacity—and the responsibility—to create a better world. This includes addressing injustice, promoting equity, and resolving conflicts through dialogue and cooperation rather than violence or coercion.

Peace Beyond the Absence of War

To a humanist, peace is not merely the absence of conflict. It is the presence of conditions that make life worth living: security, opportunity, mutual respect, and fairness. Peace is sustainable only when people have their basic needs met—when they are free from fear, oppression, and exploitation.

This is why humanists often champion international cooperation, disarmament, diplomacy, and human rights. They believe that creating peace means dismantling the roots of violence—whether economic inequality, ethnic division, religious extremism, or political tyranny.

Social Justice as a Moral Mandate

Social justice is the pursuit of a society where power, resources, and opportunities are equitably shared. Humanism, with its focus on individual dignity and collective well-being, naturally aligns with this vision. It demands that we challenge structures that perpetuate poverty, racism, sexism, ableism, ageism, and other forms of systemic discrimination.

Humanists support policies and movements that protect workers, uplift marginalized communities, defend civil liberties, and ensure access to education, healthcare, and housing. These are not just political positions—they are expressions of the belief that every human being matters equally.

Action, Not Just Intention

Humanism is not a passive philosophy. It calls for action: informed, ethical, and inclusive. Whether through grassroots activism, civic engagement, education, or technological innovation, humanists are compelled to translate their values into impact.

Promoting peace and justice doesn’t require perfection—it requires persistence, humility, and a willingness to listen and grow. It involves working across differences, acknowledging past wrongs, and striving to repair and rebuild with integrity.

A Vision for the Future

A humanist vision of peace and social justice is one where humanity recognizes its shared destiny. It is a world where we protect the vulnerable, resist tyranny, and replace hatred with understanding. It is a world shaped not by divine decree, but by the conscious, collective effort of people who believe in each other.

In a time of uncertainty, this vision offers clarity. In a world of division, it offers unity. And in the face of despair, it offers hope—anchored not in fantasy, but in our common capacity to care and to act.

Conclusion

Peace and social justice are not destinations; they are ongoing commitments. Every act of fairness, every moment of compassion, and every stand against injustice brings us one step closer to the world we seek to build.

And that world, though imperfect, is still within reach—if we choose to create it, together.

The Universal Peace Symbol image is from Wikimedia Commons and consists of four images showing the evolution from a Sun-Earth Lagrange Point diagram to a Universal Peace Symbol.

Ethical Development: A Humanist Perspective

Continuing our exploration of the Ten Commitments, I take a look at Ethical Development. Ethical development, also known as moral development, focuses on the evolution and understanding of right and wrong from early childhood through adulthood.

Ethical development, viewed through the lens of humanism, places the inherent dignity, rights, and welfare of individuals at the forefront of progress. Humanism emphasizes reason, empathy, and the intrinsic value of every person, advocating for developments that enhance human potential and societal well-being. This perspective spans all aspects of human endeavor, from social policies to educational reforms. Here, we explore the principles, challenges, and importance of ethical development from a humanist viewpoint.

Principles

  • Inherent Human Dignity: Ethical development begins with the recognition of the intrinsic worth of every individual. This principle asserts that all policies, programs, and innovations should honor and protect human dignity.
  • Empathy and Compassion: Humanism stresses empathy and compassion as guiding principles. Developments should aim to alleviate suffering, promote well-being, and support the vulnerable and marginalized.
  • Reason and Evidence-Based Decision Making: Rationality and evidence should underpin ethical development. Decisions should be informed by scientific research, data, and critical thinking to ensure effective and beneficial outcomes.
  • Equality and Justice: Promoting equality and justice is central to humanist ethics. Developments should aim to reduce disparities, ensure fair treatment, and provide equal opportunities for all individuals.
  • Personal Autonomy and Freedom: Respecting individual autonomy and freedom is essential. Ethical development should empower people to make informed choices about their lives and support their right to self-determination.

Challenges

  • Balancing Individual Rights with Collective Good: One of the primary challenges is finding the balance between individual rights and the collective good. Policies must navigate the complexities of respecting personal freedoms while promoting societal well-being.
  • Addressing Systemic Inequalities: Systemic inequalities present significant barriers to ethical development. Overcoming these requires targeted efforts to address root causes and implement sustainable solutions.
  • Global Diversity and Cultural Sensitivity: Ethical development must consider the diversity of global cultures and values. Ensuring culturally sensitive approaches while maintaining universal humanist principles can be difficult.
  • Economic and Political Pressures: Economic interests and political agendas often conflict with ethical principles. Navigating these pressures while maintaining a commitment to humanist values is a persistent challenge.

The Importance of Ethical Development

  • Enhancing Human Potential: Ethical development seeks to create environments where individuals can realize their full potential. This involves providing access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
  • Building Just and Inclusive Societies: A humanist approach to ethical development aims to build societies that are just, inclusive, and equitable. This fosters social cohesion and reduces conflict.
  • Promoting Sustainable Progress: Ethical development ensures that progress is sustainable and beneficial for future generations. This includes responsible stewardship of environmental resources and long-term planning.
  • Fostering Global Solidarity: Humanism promotes a sense of global solidarity and shared responsibility. Ethical development encourages cooperation and collective action to address global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and human rights violations.

Conclusion

Ethical development from a humanist perspective is a holistic approach that prioritizes human dignity, empathy, reason, equality, and personal freedom. It addresses the complex interplay between individual and collective needs, aiming to create a more just, inclusive, and sustainable world. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, embracing a humanist approach to ethical development can guide us towards a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the common good.

How To Think Critically

Critical thinking is a valuable skill that involves analyzing and evaluating information, arguments, and situations in a rational and logical manner.

The Buddha may have been the first critical thinker on record.  He lived about 480–400 BC and his teachings are summarized in the Noble Eightfold Path, a training of the mind that includes ethical training and meditative practices such as  kindness toward others, and mindfulness.

The teachings of Socrates (470–399 BC) are among the earliest records of critical thinking, and he is considered by some to be one of the early humanists. Socrates exerted a strong influence on philosophers in later antiquity and has continued to do so in the modern era.

In 1644, Descartes wrote “ego cogito, ergo sum” translated as I think therefore I am, but much of our thinking, left to itself, is biased, distorted, partial, uninformed or down-right prejudiced. To become a critical thinker, you must develop habits of the mind that are self-directed, self-disciplined, self-monitored, and self-corrective.

With all this history of thinking about thinking, you would think we would hone these skills and teach them to our children.  But many individuals, notable dictators, and groups, mostly religious, do not want you to think.  Critical thinking is a cornerstone of democracy and one of the American Humanist Association’s Ten Commitments

Here are some techniques to help improve your critical thinking skills:

  1. Question Assumptions: Challenge your own and others’ assumptions. Ask yourself why you believe something to be true and whether there’s evidence to support those beliefs.
  2. Seek Multiple Perspectives: Look at an issue from various viewpoints. Consider how different people might approach the same situation and what factors might influence their opinions.
  3. Evaluate Evidence: Assess the quality and relevance of evidence presented in support of an argument. Consider the source, credibility, and context of the information.
  4. Analyze Logic: Examine the logical structure of an argument. Check for any fallacies or errors in reasoning that might weaken the argument’s validity.
  5. Avoid Confirmation Bias: Be aware of your tendency to favor information that confirms your existing beliefs. Actively seek out and consider information that challenges your views.
  6. Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Break down complex problems into smaller parts. Analyze each part separately and then look for connections and patterns.
  7. Practice Active Listening: When engaging in discussions or reading, actively listen or read with the intent to understand rather than just respond. This helps you process information more effectively.
  8. Ask Thoughtful Questions: Instead of accepting surface-level information, dig deeper by asking questions that encourage more detailed explanations.
  9. Consider Consequences: Think about the potential outcomes and consequences of different decisions and actions. This can help you make more informed choices.
  10. Think Systematically: Consider how different elements of a situation or problem interact with one another. This helps you understand the bigger picture and how various factors contribute to an outcome.
  11. Develop Research Skills: Learn how to find reliable sources of information and how to evaluate the credibility and relevance of those sources.
  12. Practice Reflective Thinking: Regularly take time to reflect on your own thought processes, decisions, and beliefs. Consider what factors might have influenced your thinking and whether there are ways to improve your approach.
  13. Be Open to Change: Be willing to revise your opinions and beliefs in light of new evidence or better arguments. Flexibility is key to adapting your thinking.
  14. Apply Socratic Questioning: This method involves asking a series of probing questions to help explore the underlying assumptions, implications, and potential solutions to a problem.
  15. Develop Analytical Skills: Enhance your ability to analyze data, statistics, and trends. This can help you make more informed decisions based on evidence.
  16. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness to be fully present in the moment. This can help you observe your own thoughts and emotions more objectively, which is essential for critical thinking.

Remember that critical thinking is a skill that takes time and practice to develop. Engaging in activities that challenge your thinking, such as reading diverse viewpoints, solving puzzles, and participating in debates, can all contribute to honing your critical thinking abilities.

Humanism: Service and Participation

In examining the 10 Commitments of Living Humanist Values, one of the commitments is Service and Participation.

Service and participation means putting values into action in ways that positively impact our communities and society as a whole. It fosters helping others, increasing social awareness, enhancing accountability, and many attributes of the other nine commitments. Engaging in service doesn’t just make the recipients better off, but those who serve can develop new skills, experiences, and personal satisfaction that all promote personal growth. We must all recognize that we are members of a group, and engaging in service to benefit the group and the other individuals in it makes us all better off.

The Secular Hub is an example of that commitment, being an all volunteer organization, providing space for events that bring people together and creating opportunities for helping our community and people outside our group.

This weekend (June 24-25, 2023), we are participating in two events: Denver PrideFest (Saturday & Sunday) and the Highlands Street Fair (Saturday) to bring our message to the wider Denver Metro community.  Come visit our booths at one or both of these events.

Also celebrate the summer solstice and enjoy the long days as they get shorter from today.

Living Humanist Values: The Ten Commitments


Reprinted from the TheHumanist.com by Kristin Wintermute • 27 August 2019

WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF HUMANISM? How does one live as a humanist?

Like many of you, I have read a plethora of articles and longer works defining humanism. Each proclaims a different emphasis highlighting various aspects of what is valued by humanists. Some declare humanism to be a religion, a life stance, or a worldview, while others profess it to be a progressive philosophy, an ethical perspective, or a belief system. Usually, an array of principles is provided as a list of what’s key to humanists—affirming human worth and dignity, reason, compassion, morality, ethics, democracy, scientific inquiry, naturalism, and critical thinking with no adherence or affirmation of a divine creator or other supernatural force. None of the definitions are entirely conclusive, and all are correct in outlining the fundamentals of humanism.

However, this brings little clarity to what humanism is or how one lives as a humanist. Without a definitive set of beliefs, dogma, or scripture, humanism appears nebulous, which is the main reason we at the American Humanist Association Center for Education have developed the Ten Commitments.

Whereas the Ten Commandments of the Hebrew Bible are a set of strict rules dictated by God, the Ten Commitments stand on their own as humanist values to maintain and strive to practice daily. They propose we put our values into action to work towards positively impacting our communities and society. In their simplicity, the Ten Commitments ultimately define what we are about and what we stand for. I also see the Ten Commitments as an avenue for collaboration—a gathering point for all humanists to work together.

Now, having grown up humanist and having worked in a variety of professional capacities in the movement, I’m very aware that within humanist circles, independence of mind is a significant priority—a venerated value for those who feel they narrowly escaped the confines of a religion that was “commanding” and, in some cases, repressive. And so many may initially feel the Ten Commitments smack of a directive authority and should be rejected.

However, I think the Ten Commitments are less about absolutes and serve more as a guide to putting our beliefs into action. They hold us accountable to our values. They ask humanists to be proactive versus reactive. They demonstrate that being humanist involves doing what is inherently right to ensure the well being of everyone and everything in this world. They inspire me to be better as a person and do better as a humanist.

It is my hope that readers find similar value in them. (A simpler version has also been developed for use in educational settings with younger humanists and in various other promotional ways). The AHA Center for Education plans to build a curriculum around the Ten Commitments that would also appeal to others in a variety of secular settings, such that the Ten Commitments become not only widely accepted character education, but a guide within professional settings promoting health and wellness.

Kristin Wintermute is the Education Director of the Center for Education at the American Humanist Association.

The Real Origins of the Religious Right, and Why It Matters

The Religious Right is flexing its powerful muscles these days; in the last month alone they have gained the right to prayers at school, forced public funding for religious institutions, and repealed a half-century-old right to choice for women. The tradition of separation of church and state espoused by our founding fathers seems to be in deep jeopardy. How have we arrived at this juncture?

One of the enduring myths in recent history is the fiction that the Religious Right galvanized as a political movement in response to the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. Evangelicals, however, considered abortion a Catholic issue throughout the 1970s. Most evangelicals were silent when the Roe decision was handed down, and those who did comment actually applauded the ruling. The real origins of the Religious Right may surprise you.

Randall Balmer holds the John Phillips Chair in Religion at Dartmouth College, the oldest endowed professorship there. He has followed an interesting trajectory in life. He is an Episcopal priest who was born into a Evangelical Christian family and raised in that subculture, which was constructed defensively to avoid interaction with people outside of the subculture. His education exposed him to wider worldviews. He grew away from that subculture and became a recognized expert on American religious communities.

Two days ago, he gave a talk to the Columbia University community titled The Real Origins of the Religious Right, and Why It Matters.

Click here to view a YouTube recording of his talk.