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Edinburgh at night. Photo by Roan Lavery on Unsplash

Humanism is the only non-religious life stance which offers a written moral and ethical code. The Amsterdam Declaration contains several decrees, each with a rational approach to life across many key aspects of sustainable life and well-being. The decrees of its code are scrutinised and updated regularly by a convergence of members worldwide, via the tri-annual Humanists International congress.

The 2023 World Humanist Congress will be held in Copenhagen from Thursday 3rd August to Sunday 6th of August 2023.

This is what sets humanism apart from faith-based life stances, which are invariably steeped in pre-documented history from 1500 - 2000+ years ago. In the spirit of Mr Charles Darwin himself, Humanism continues to evolve as a worldwide organisation, meaning Humanists International is a growing influence during this critical period in human history. 

We believe the key to our progress is respect, responsibility and reconnection - to each other and the world around us. We behave as though we own this planet when in truth, the earth will recover from the scars we inflict upon it and move on without us. We must avoid any further damage and begin the healing process. Humanism is part of the changing values we need to see if progress is to happen all over the world. 

Humanism in Scotland

We are keenly aware of the distinction between the ever-increasing emphasis on the provision of humanist ceremonies and the bigger picture that is Humanism. Our primary goal is to promote humanism in our society - not because we think we are offering a better alternative but because we believe we offer a realistic and relatable alternative in our secular society. Humanism upholds the belief that we can all be better, happier humans. As individuals, we can make a difference in the lives of people around us and as a species, we have the ability (and the power) to react to the threats and challenges we face in the 21st Century.

The basis in 2005 for Humanist accreditation to conduct legal marriages in Scotland was a formal recognition of the importance and relevance of Humanism in our society. Our central message of The Golden Rule predates religion via Greek and Chinese philosophy and stands as a global philosophical life view.

Our life stance has found its way into the classroom and the UN. Humanists International is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) with representation on various United Nations committees (and other international bodies) AND 'Humanism' is now part of the teaching module in the Scottish Qualifications Authority guidance, as part of the Curriculum for Excellence. Progress is also being made in the rest of the UK with England and Wales now including Humanism as part of their school curriculum.

Our organisation welcomes you to a network of people who discover us through our ceremonies, seek support during difficult times, find meaning in humanism through research or otherwise, or are keenly interested in everyday aspects of life and the issues which affect us all. We encourage you to engage with us and with campaigns or activities that further the betterment of humankind and our planet. 

Together we can affect positive change because together we are strong.

Ron McLaren, Humanism in Scotland 2014

(updated February 2023)

"The future of humanity and indeed all life on earth depends on us"

David Attenborough

Photo by Steffen B. on Unsplash

The name orangutan means "man of the forest" in the Malay language. In the lowland forests in which they reside, orangutans live solitary existences. It is believed Orangutans choose not to speak because if they did, humans would turn them into slaves.

DIGNITY   EQUALITY   RESPECT