WHat is Ethical HUMANISM?

Ethical Humanism (also sometimes called Ethical Culture) is the name of an evolving body of ideas that inspires Ethical Societies. Unlike traditional religious congregations, which come together to follow a scripture or the teachings of a religious leader, Ethical Societies are guided by the best human thinking in the areas of ethics, science, and well-being. Humanism is the collective name for all that human wisdom, which we seek to use to transform ourselves and our world.

What do Ethical Humanists Believe?
Our core belief is that every person is worthy and should be treated with dignity. We fight against all forms of oppression which strip the dignity from people, seeking always to view people as beings worthy of respect. This is why we have consistently championed the rights of women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ people, people with disabilities, economically disadvantaged people, and all people suffering from oppression.

Does Ethical Humanism Teach Belief in a God?
No. As a non-theistic organization, we foster free religious thought, and our mission is to help answer the ultimate questions, “How can we create meaningfulness in this life?” and “How should we treat each other?” without reference to the supernatural. Our members are free to believe what they like about deities and the supernatural, and we do not talk about a god or gods on Sundays.

Is Ethical Humanism a Religion?
Yes and no. Some of our members consider Humanism to be their religion, while others consider themselves non-religious. ​​The founder of Ethical Humanism, Felix Adler, said “[Ethical Humanism] is religious to those who are religiously minded, and merely ethical to those who are not so minded.”

The American Ethical Union
The American Ethical Union (AEU) is the umbrella body which connects and represents all Ethical Societies in the USA. The AEU trains Ethical Society Leaders; provides resources for Ethical Societies around the country; and organizes an Annual Assembly where members of Ethical Societies join together to discuss the great ethical challenges of the day. You can learn more on the AEU Website.

What is an Ethical Society?

  • A laboratory for personal growth
  • A weekly rest 
  • A place to recollect one's real worth through tapping into a deeper connection
  • A center for raising ethical children in truth and community
  • A place to safely be oneself and reach out beyond oneself
  • A center of discussion of current issues on which ethics has a bearing
  • A social community
  • A spiritual home
  • A wedding chapel
  • An academy of free inquiry on the most significant questions of life
  • A movement to "ethicize" all social reform movements
  • A keeper of the ideal of an ethical world society
  • A gateway to worthwhile ethical action in the world
  • People affirming and supporting their highest aspirations
  • An organization to structure and invigorate all of the above