Humanism

Definition

Humanism is an intellectual movement that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, focusing on human potential and achievements, often drawing inspiration from classical antiquity. This movement champions the study of subjects like literature, philosophy, and history, reflecting a shift from a primarily religious worldview to one that values reason and individualism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Humanism emerged during the Renaissance as scholars sought to rediscover and study classical texts, leading to advancements in literature, science, and philosophy.
2. The movement shifted focus away from religious dogma towards human experience and rational thought, encouraging critical thinking and empirical evidence.
3. Key figures in humanism include Petrarch, who is often referred to as the 'father of humanism', and Erasmus, who promoted education and moral philosophy.
4. Humanism greatly influenced art during the Renaissance, leading artists to portray human subjects with realism and emotion, as seen in works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
5. The ideas of humanism laid the groundwork for later developments in Western thought, including the Enlightenment and modern secular philosophies.

Review Questions

• How did humanism contribute to changes in education during the Renaissance?
  • Humanism transformed education by emphasizing the study of classical texts and subjects that fostered critical thinking and personal development. Instead of a curriculum focused solely on theology, humanist educators advocated for the inclusion of literature, philosophy, and history. This approach not only aimed to cultivate well-rounded individuals but also encouraged students to engage with their own ideas and experiences, laying the foundation for modern educational practices.
• Analyze the impact of humanism on Renaissance art and literature.
  • Humanism had a profound impact on Renaissance art and literature by inspiring artists and writers to focus on human subjects and individual experiences rather than solely religious themes. This resulted in a shift towards realism in visual arts, where artists like Leonardo da Vinci captured human emotion and anatomy with unprecedented accuracy. In literature, writers such as Dante and Petrarch explored themes of love, nature, and the human condition, reflecting a newfound appreciation for human experiences and emotions.
• Evaluate how humanism paved the way for modern secular philosophies in Western thought.
  • Humanism laid the groundwork for modern secular philosophies by challenging traditional religious perspectives and promoting reason as a tool for understanding the world. By valuing human agency and potential over divine intervention, humanists inspired later thinkers during the Enlightenment to advocate for individual rights, scientific inquiry, and democratic governance. This shift not only transformed philosophical discourse but also contributed to the development of contemporary concepts surrounding personal freedom, ethics, and civic responsibility.

Related terms

Renaissance: A cultural and intellectual revival in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century, marked by a renewed interest in classical art, literature, and learning.

Secularism: The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational institutions, promoting a non-religious worldview.

Classical Antiquity: A period of history centered around the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome, which significantly influenced the development of humanism.