FutureLearn

Introducing Humanism: Non-religious Approaches to Life, with Sandi Toksvig (FutureLearn)

Offered by Humanists UK,
Introducing Humanism: Non-religious Approaches to Life, with Sandi Toksvig (FutureLearn)

Learn about humanism - a non-religious, ethical worldview shared by millions across the world. Presented by Sandi Toksvig. Learn about how humanists approach life's big questions. Humanism is a non-religious, ethical world view shared by millions of people around the world. Humanists believe that this life is the only life we have, that the universe is a natural phenomenon with no supernatural side, and that we can live ethical and fulfilling lives on the basis of reason and humanity.

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However, there is widespread misunderstanding about what it means to be a humanist or to live a life without a religion. On this course you will learn more about humanist beliefs and values, and discover how humanists attempt to answer life’s big questions.

What topics will you cover?

  • The humanist understanding of human beings: our nature, capacities, and responsibilities
  • How humanists answer questions about the world (science, reason, scepticism) and the consequences for a humanist understanding of reality
  • A humanist approach to making life meaningful and the value of individual freedom
  • The origins and evolution of morality and a humanist perspective on how to be good
  • The humanist vision for society (secularism, freedoms, and human rights) and the motivations behind their goals
  • Different definitions of humanism, its history, and its diversity

What will you achieve?
By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

  • Investigate and explore humanist beliefs, values, and goals
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the humanist worldview
  • Apply what one has learned in discussion with others
  • Evaluate the humanist approach to life
  • Reflect upon one's own approach and answers to life's big questions

Who is the course for?
Recommended for learners age 16+
This course is suitable for anyone looking to develop their understanding of humanism. It will particularly appeal to those with a passion for exploring life’s big questions. It will also be of value to teachers and other educators wanting to develop their subject knowledge about non-religious beliefs, and to sixth-form students looking to prepare themselves for a degree in the humanities.

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