Description
Book SynopsisHumanists have been a major force in British life since the turn of the 20th century. Here, leading historians of religious non-belief Callum Brown, David Nash, and Charlie Lynch examine how humanist organisations brought ethical reform and rationalism to the nation as it faced the moral issues of the modern world. This book provides a long overdue account of this dynamic group. Developing through the Ethical Union (1896), the Rationalist Press Association (1899), the British Humanist Association (1963) and Humanists UK (2017), Humanists sought to reduce religious privilege but increase humanitarian compassion and human rights. After pioneering legislation on blasphemy laws, dignity in dying and abortion rights, they went on to help design new laws on gay marriage, and sex and moral education. Internationally, they endeavoured to end war and world hunger. And with Humanist marriages and celebration of life through Humanist funerals, national ritual and culture have recently been tr
Trade ReviewThis important book is highly recommended for providing a clear and scholarly study of the uneven development of Humanism from its Victorian precursors to its maturity as the most influential alternative to religions as the basis for a liberal and morally progressive society in the present age. * Edward Royle, Emeritus Professor in History, University of York Country, United Kingdom *
Table of ContentsList of Images 1. The Origins of the Ethical Movement to 1926 2. Unbelief and Humanism: The Popular Mood of British Society 3. Challenging the State, 1896-1939 4. Humanism as an International Movement, 1896-1952 5. Union and Consolidation of the British Movement, 1939-1969 6. Movement and Thought: The Development of Humanist Thought, c.1890-c.1960 7. Humanism and the New Morality, 1955-1980 8. Humanism and British Culture, 1963-2021 9. The British Humanist Association and its Mission to Britain, 1963-2021 10. Britain and the World: The International Humanist and Ethical Union since 1952 11. Humanism and the Progressive Future Bibliography Index
