Humanism

Definition

Humanism is an intellectual movement that originated during the Renaissance, emphasizing the value and agency of human beings and focusing on classical studies, such as philosophy, literature, and the arts. It sought to revive and study ancient Greek and Roman texts, leading to a renewed appreciation for human potential and achievements, which contrasted with the medieval focus on religious dogma and the afterlife.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Humanism arose as scholars sought to recover and study classical texts, which they believed contained valuable insights about human nature and society.
2. Key figures in the humanist movement included Petrarch, Erasmus, and Thomas More, who promoted the study of humanities and emphasized moral philosophy.
3. Humanists advocated for education reforms that included not only classical studies but also rhetoric, grammar, poetry, and history.
4. The movement laid the groundwork for modern science and critical thinking by encouraging a spirit of inquiry and evidence-based reasoning.
5. Humanism contributed to the broader cultural shifts of the Renaissance, impacting art, literature, and even politics by promoting individualism and personal achievement.

Review Questions

• How did humanism influence educational reforms during the Renaissance?
  • Humanism significantly influenced educational reforms by promoting a curriculum centered around classical texts and the humanities. Educators began to emphasize subjects like grammar, rhetoric, history, and moral philosophy instead of strictly theological studies. This shift encouraged students to think critically about their own experiences and values, paving the way for a more rounded education that fostered creativity and inquiry.
• Discuss how humanism differed from medieval scholasticism in terms of its focus and approach to knowledge.
  • Humanism differed from medieval scholasticism primarily in its focus on human experience and secular subjects rather than purely theological discussions. While scholasticism was rooted in reconciling faith with reason through the lens of religion, humanists sought to engage directly with classical texts to explore ethical, moral, and philosophical questions. This shift highlighted the importance of individual thought and empirical evidence over dogma.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of humanism on Western thought and culture beyond the Renaissance period.
  • The long-term impacts of humanism on Western thought include a lasting emphasis on individual rights, critical thinking, and empirical research methods that underlie modern science. This movement fostered an environment where questioning authority became more accepted, influencing democratic ideas and movements for social reform. Furthermore, humanism has persisted in contemporary education and arts, promoting a continued appreciation for human potential and creativity in shaping society.

Related terms

Renaissance: A cultural movement spanning the 14th to the 17th century that marked a renewed interest in classical antiquity, art, and human-centered philosophy.

Classical Antiquity: The period of ancient Greek and Roman history characterized by advancements in art, philosophy, and governance that heavily influenced later Western culture.

Secularism: The principle of separating religious institutions from governmental and educational systems, allowing for a focus on human experience and reason.