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What is the history and origins of humanism in religion?

Talan Lipp

Humanism in religion refers to an approach to faith that emphasizes the value of human beings and their ability to make positive changes in the world. It emerged in the Renaissance era as a reaction to the dogmatic and authoritarian nature of the medieval church, which had been plagued by corruption and a lack of focus on individual spiritual growth.

One of the earliest proponents of humanism in religion was Erasmus, a Dutch theologian who argued that the Bible should be interpreted through the lens of reason and moral philosophy, rather than solely through the authority of the church. He also advocated for greater tolerance and understanding between different religious groups, laying the groundwork for later interfaith efforts.

Another key figure in the history of humanism in religion was Martin Luther, who famously challenged the Catholic church's practice of selling indulgences and called for a return to the basic tenets of Christianity as expressed in the Bible. While Luther was primarily concerned with reforming the church from within, his emphasis on individual conscience and scripture laid the foundation for later humanist thought.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, humanism in religion took on a more secular character as philosophers such as John Locke and Voltaire advocated for reason, freedom, and equality as the foundations of a just society. These ideas were also reflected in the Enlightenment-era writings of Thomas Paine and Thomas Jefferson, who saw religion as a tool for personal enlightenment rather than as an instrument of political control.

The 19th and 20th centuries saw the rise of various forms of religious humanism, including the Unitarian Universalist movement and the Ethical Culture Society, which sought to combine the moral teachings of religion with the scientific and rational approach of humanism. These groups placed a strong emphasis on social justice, environmentalism, and other progressive causes, recognizing that humanism in religion must involve a commitment to making the world a better place for all people.

Today, humanism in religion continues to evolve and adapt to changing social and cultural circumstances. Some religious humanists have embraced new technologies and scientific discoveries as tools for spiritual growth and personal transformation, while others have become more closely tied to political activism and social movements. Yet the basic tenets of humanism in religion remain the same: a commitment to the inherent worth and dignity of every person, a belief in reason and critical thinking, and a dedication to using our talents and resources to build a more just and equitable world.