noun · neutral
humanism
/ˈhjuːmənɪzəm/HU·man·ism
An outlook that emphasizes human values, reason, and dignity, often focusing on secular and ethical concerns rather than religious doctrine.
Examples
“Renaissance humanism revived interest in classical learning and the value of the individual.”
“Many philosophers argue for a humanism that supports human rights and dignity.”
“Secular humanism often appears in debates about ethics and public policy.”
Band 8 sentence
“Renaissance humanism shifted European thought by emphasizing critical inquiry and the value of the individual.”
Collocations
- secular humanism
- humanist values
- Renaissance humanism
Word family
Common mistakes
He believes in humanism and helps many people.→He is a humanist and helps many people.
Humanism is the same as humanitarianism.→Humanism is related to but not the same as humanitarianism.
Say it for a higher band
5human values→6humanist beliefs→7+humanism
Synonyms
humanitarianism
anthropocentrism
Easily confused
humanitarianism
“Humanitarianism often focuses on immediate relief and aid for people in crisis.”
Related words
Learn this word with the rest of its set, and get reminded at the right time.
In -ism
Learn it with its set