Our Humanist Principles
Be ethical.
Humanists value the inherent moral rewards of honesty, empathy, love, caring for others, and the social benefits of a supportive community, rather than faith. We are good because we want to be good—not because we are told to be good,or for the expectation of any reward, or out of fear of any punishment.
Think rationally.
Engaging in critical thinking allows people to objectively evaluate and discuss ideas to determine the most appropriate course of action. This allows us to set higher standards for improving the human condition and strengthens personal integrity.
Treat people with dignity and respect.
Humanists support everyone’s right to fair and equal consideration under the law. We recognize the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms as a touchstone for human rights and civil freedoms.
Practise social responsibility.
Humanists believe that by working together, and by sharing knowledge and resources, we can improve our ability to understand, nurture, and protect the wondrous and fragile world we live in.
Advocate for democracy and secular public policies.
Democracy gives every person the right and freedom to be heard. Secularism ensures that everyone is treated equally and fairly under the law, regardless of personal belief or philosophy. Having secular policies in place ensures that legislative objectivity is upheld in terms of decisions on public health, education, and the economy.
Support public funding of schools with secular, not faith-based, curricula.
Secular schools have education as their priority and teach students in a diverse and inclusive environment. Faith-based schools have indoctrination as their priority and teach students religious and cultural bias in a socially segregated environment. Every province and territory in Canada—except for Ontario—has stopped government funding of faith-based public schools. It is about time that Ontario did the same. Our educational institutions must be free to foster the learning of science and philosophy without fear of reprisal from religious lobbyists.
Worldwide Definition of Humanism
“Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. Humanism stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethic based on human and other natural values in the spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities.”
— Humanists International