Devon Humanists

Devon Humanists


HumanismDevon Humanists
  • Humanism is a positive way of life based on reason and experience. Humanists believe in the natural not the supernatural.
  • Morality springs from respect for each other and in recognising the need to live together in harmony and cooperation.
  • Individual beliefs should not be imposed on others nor should privileges be gained through particular beliefs.
  • Humanists seek solely rational ways of solving human problems.
  • Support and represent Humanists in Devon. Provide opportunities to discuss Humanist topics and to meet socially.
  • Promote Humanism by publicising Humanist philosophy and supporting our schools in teaching about Humanism.
  • Advocate secularism in education and in civil affairs.
  • Provide information about humanist ceremonies for those who prefer a non-religious celebration of life's rites of passage.
The only possible basis for a sound morality is mutual tolerance and respect: tolerance of one another's customs and opinions; respect for one another's rights and feelings; awareness of one another's needs.

A J Ayer, The Humanist Outlook, 1968

Key figures in humanism

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News

Prayers at Council meetings -- Judicial Review

The National Secular Society told the High Court today (2 December) that it was inappropriate for Bideford Town Council to bring religion into a "secular environment" where civic business was being dealt with. The conduct of holding prayers within the formal part of the meeting is an unlawful practice. The council's insistence on prayers being said breaches articles nine and 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

If some council members want to pray, that should be a private matter and there is no problem with them doing so before council meetings. It unreasonable to insist that anyone’s religious beliefs should be imposed on others.

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Religion is an illusion and it derives its strength from its readiness to fit in with our instinctual wishful impulses.

Sigmund Freud

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