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Encyclopedia of Religion entries for HumanismSpiritual Humanism, is a religious and philosophical movement that embraces the religious inclinations common to most people, yet additionally requires verifiable scientifically valid evidence for religious beliefs. Founded by RA Zorger, the movement addresses the issue that as our knowledge of the workings of nature expand, human interest in religious activities continue, even when religious beliefs are in disagreement with this new information. Central to Spiritual Humanism is the concept that most people need and enjoy religious rituals and activities and that these are an intrinsic part of what it means to be human. While the need for religion appears to be ingrained, our fundamental religious cosmology and ethics must be based on the best manner of learning the true nature of the universe, which is the scientific method. The principles of Spiritual Humanism include: 1. Seek religious inspiration in nature. 2. Base religion on knowledge gained by the scientific method. 3. Treat people with equality of equality. 4. Take action to diminish suffering, and advance happiness. 5. Natural Resources that belong to every one must be protected. 6. Mark the arrival of the seasons with religious rituals. 7. Make a regular practice of religious activities such as meditation. 8. Recognize the debt to past and the future generations. 9. Stand up for these principles and defend your beliefs. 10. Continually improve these ideas as new information becomes available.
Claiming more then 100,000 members, The Church of Spiritual Humanism is the largest Humanist organization in North America.
The American Humanist Association for example has a membership of less then 10,000. Many Humanist use
ordination by the Church for marriage ceremonies,
for example the New York Times Weddings/Celebrations section announces roughly ten weddings a year performed by a Spiritual
Humanist Minister. Notable ordained ministers of the
Church of Spiritual Humanism include
John Rennie,
who is the editor in chief of Scientific American magazine and
Victor S. Navasky
editor and publisher of The Nation. |
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