What is Humanism

Many people are humanists before they know the word for it.
They may describe themselves as atheist, agnostic, secular, spiritual-but-not-religious, or simply unsure. But when they hear what humanism means, something often clicks. Humanism gives language to values they may already hold: concern for human well-being, commitment to fairness, respect for evidence, and a desire to live ethically in this life.

Humanism is a non-religious ethical philosophy grounded in reason, compassion, human rights, and respect for the natural world. Humanists believe that people can live meaningful, responsible, and ethical lives without relying on supernatural beliefs. For many people, humanism is not a new belief system. It is a recognition. It names a way of thinking and living that they may have been practising all along.

Humanist Principles

Goal: Humanists seek a just and caring society that values well being, eases suffering, promotes human rights and protects the environment.

Principles

  • Humanists seek a just and caring society that values well-being, eases suffering, promotes human rights, and protects the environment.
  • We value reason, ingenuity, imagination, and creativity in human life.
  • We recognize science and evidence-based inquiry as the most reliable ways to understand the natural world.
  • We accept that knowledge, beliefs, and conclusions should remain open to revision when new evidence emerges.
  • We understand that human beings are part of an interdependent world, and that our choices affect other people, other species, and the environment.
  • We believe individuals have choices and are responsible for the choices they make.
  • We do not rely on belief in gods, supernatural powers, or an afterlife. Instead, we focus on this life: how we live, how we treat one another, what we contribute, and how we are remembered.
  • We encourage respectful discussion and seek to understand different points of view.
  • We welcome people from diverse backgrounds who share humanist values.

Our History

Grey Bruce Humanists is a local community for people who value thoughtful conversation, ethical living, curiosity, and social connection. We bring people together to discuss ideas, learn from one another, and explore what it means to live well in a complicated world. Our members and supporters come from different backgrounds, but share an interest in reason, compassion, human dignity, and open discussion. Our activities may include discussion gatherings, guest speakers, social events, public education, community initiatives, and advocacy on issues connected to human rights, secularism, science, dignity, and equality.

We are not a religious organization. We are a welcoming secular community for people who want connection, conversation, and a place to belong. Grey Bruce Humanists began when local residents saw the need for a humanist community in the region. From early informal gatherings, the group grew through conversation, shared learning, public engagement, and the work of members who believed that secular community matters. Today, Grey Bruce Humanists continues to offer a place for people to meet like-minded neighbours, exchange ideas, and build friendships grounded in shared values.

You do not need to have all the answers. You do not even need to be sure whether the word “humanist” fits you. Come to a gathering. Join a conversation. Meet people who care about reason, compassion, community, and living ethically in the here and now.

You may find that humanism is simply the name for what you already believe.