Ethical Humanism, also called Ethical Culture, is an evolving body of ideas that inspires Ethical Societies nationwide. Humanism is a progressive philosophy of life that, without supernaturalism, affirms that we as human beings have the agency and capacity to make our world a place in which all living things can thrive. It says that ethics is not a by-product of religion, but rather is the basis of religion. For Ethical Humanists, the ultimate religious questions are not about the existence of gods or an afterlife, but rather, “How can we create meaning for ourselves in this life?” and “How should we treat each other?”
Ethical Humanism is clear about the essential role that ethical principles play in human relationships. In order for people to lead good lives, love must prevail, truth must be respected, honesty esteemed, justice secured, and freedom protected. Learning how to realize these ideals in personal and political relationships is the purpose of Ethical Societies.
Does Ethical Humanism have a creed?
We are not bound by any community creed or dogma. Rather, Ethical Societies emphasize the importance of developing a clear personal philosophy that makes your life understandable and meaningful. Learning to benefit from a diversity of viewpoints is one of our challenges. Members encourage each other to think freely and to disagree without being disagreeable. This is captured in the expression “Deed before creed,” meaning that what one does is more important than what one professes.
What beliefs do Ethical Societies teach?
Freedom of Belief: When we stimulate our thinking with new insights and inspirations, our understanding of the world evolves, and we realize the full capacity of our human spirit.
Eliciting the Best: It is by acting in a way that encourages and elicits the better natures in others that we bring out the best in ourselves.
Respect for Human Worth: We treat all people as having inherent worth and a capacity for good, for kindness, for generosity and for personal growth.
Ethical Living: When we put into practice ethical principles such as love, justice, honesty, and forgiveness, we experience harmony within ourselves and in our relationships.
Reverence for Life: We cultivate the spiritual dimension in life by experiencing our interdependent connections to humanity, nature, and our inner values.
Respect for Science: Our understanding of the universe comes from observation, not revelation. Science is our key to unlocking the mysteries of creation.
Is Ethical Humanism religious?
For many, Ethical Humanism or Ethical Culture is a philosophy and a way of living. For others, these principles evoke a religious sense for its importance to self-definition. Ethical Societies serve as congregations in which members can build a community of friends, find inspiration and purpose, provide moral education for their children, celebrate seasons and life events, and clarify their world views. Professional Ethical Culture Leaders fill the roles of clergy by meeting the pastoral needs of members, performing ceremonies recognizing life’s stages including weddings, memorials and coming of age, and serving as spokespeople for the community.
What are the principles of the New York Society for Ethical Culture?
The Ethical Culture Society is a diverse community of caring people from all race, ethnic and gender identities who are dedicated to a life guided by ethics, fairness and hope. We commit ourselves to:
- Bring out the best in the human spirit;
- Appreciate and celebrate the unique worth, dignity and contribution of every person;
- Support each other through the stages of life;
- Raise the quality of all our relationships;
- Promote democracy, equality, social justice, education, and science;
- Act with reverence and responsibility toward the natural world;
- Advocate the deed before a creed; and
- Build a culture of ethics for a more just, caring and sustainable world.
We welcome as members those who embrace these ideals