Definition

1. Noun:
   • A cultural and intellectual movement of the Renaissance: This meaning refers to the historical movement that revived interest in classical Greek and Roman literature, art, and philosophy, emphasizing secular concerns and human potential.
   • A philosophical stance emphasizing human values and agency: This doctrine centers on human dignity, worth, and capacity for self-fulfillment through rational thought, often without reliance on religious belief.
   • An ethical philosophy focused on human welfare: This doctrine asserts that the primary moral duty is to promote human well-being and happiness.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The art and literature of the Renaissance were deeply influenced by humanism, drawing inspiration from ancient texts.
  • His humanism led him to believe that ethical solutions could be found through reason and compassion, not dogma.
  • The charity's work is driven by a profound sense of humanism, prioritizing the alleviation of human suffering.

Advanced Usage

• Secular humanism: A modern form of humanism that explicitly rejects religious belief and supernaturalism, affirming ethics and meaningful life based on human reason and experience.
  • Secular humanism provides a moral framework for many non-religious individuals.
• Renaissance humanism: Specifically refers to the intellectual movement of the 14th-16th centuries.
  • The study of classical rhetoric was a cornerstone of Renaissance humanism.

Variants and Related Words

• Humanist (noun): A person who supports or practices humanism.
  • She is a noted humanist and philosopher.
• Humanistic (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of humanism.
  • The school promotes a humanistic approach to education.
• Humanitarian (adjective/noun): While related, this word specifically focuses on promoting human welfare and reducing suffering, often through direct aid. It is a close concept but not a direct variant of "humanism."
  • They provided humanitarian aid to the refugees.

Synonyms

• Humanitarianism: (Specifically for the welfare-focused meaning) Philanthropy, benevolence.
• Secularism: (For the non-religious aspect) Rationalism, freethinking.

Related Phrases

• Humanist philosophy: The body of ideas associated with humanism.
  • He dedicated his life to advancing humanist philosophy.
• Humanist values: The principles derived from humanism, such as critical thinking, empathy, and ethical responsibility.
  • The organization's charter is built on humanist values.

Related Idioms

(Note: "Humanism" itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions. The related term "humanist" appears in phrases describing outlooks.) - To have a humanist outlook: To view the world with an emphasis on human reason, ethics, and potential. - Despite the challenges, she maintains a humanist outlook on life.

Noun

1. the cultural movement of the Renaissance; based on classical studies
2. the doctrine emphasizing a person's capacity for self-realization through reason; rejects religion and the supernatural
3. the doctrine that people's duty is to promote human welfare