Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

When my dad died last year mum just happened to mention that they followed the philosophy of humanism and that she was arranging a woodland burial. This was the first time that I became aware of my parents fitting into any particular category as far as their beliefs, ethics, morals and way of conducting themselves throughout life, was concerned.

So I did a bit of research and found The British Humanist Association and today I checked out The Humanist Association of Canada.

I hadn't realised that this way of living fits with the way that I think about life and how I live it, or try to, as a result of my upbringing.
I didn't believe that there existed a label that would fit so appropriately, I'd never really looked into our family way of thinking. We just are the way we are.

No one else I know or have asked knows what I'm on about when I mention the 'Humanism' word, so I thought I'd provoke a debate here and see what comes along.

Are there any views out there on this?

Is this too deep a subject for the Maple Lounge?

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

My friends recently had a death in the family and because they were not a religious family they decided on a humanist funeral.

By all accounts it was far more in keeping with what they felt a standard funeral would be and I do believe it helped them with the grieving process.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I was raised a Catholic, but due to what I do for a living, much of the way I live my life more properly fits into the philosophy of humanism. It can be a touchy subject in some parts over here, because the overtly traditional or even fundamentalist religious aspect appears to be an integral component of many people's lives and communities. I know when I deal with abuse cases in deeply religious families, I can often get past the religious barrier by using a humanist approach. I have a great respect for humanism and no, I think by it's very essence the subject matter is not too deep for the Maple Leaf.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Although Unitarian Churches adhere to what they refer to as principles, although they don't have a common creed or dogma, and although their members have a wide variety of individual beliefs, a large percentage of Unitarians in Canada are humanists.

I see from your profile, Robin, that you are heading for Black Creek, BC. In case this is of any interest to you, there is a Unitarian Fellowship in Comox.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Cripes...
I think I'm a humanist, and I didn't even know it...........

Like you I have never questioned what I am, I just am me, I have not particularly followed my parents example, but I have inherited their morals and attitudes.

I firmly believe that life is what you make of it and it should never have a negative effect on somebody else.

I am attempting to bring up my children with the same awareness, that you can't sit around and moan, you have to do things, make them happen live your dreams, to be caring and considerate towards everyone and everything....

Personally I hate labels...I prefer to think of myself as being socially responsible......

:wub: Charlie :wub:
Sending the entire world a hug:thumbsup:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Yes this was so appropriate for us too, in a funny kind of way. Dad used to say that whatever we chucked overboard had to be biodegradable, so how fitting that he was buried in a wicker casket in a woodland grove, planted with bulbs and trees by families, all biodegradable, the cycle of life complete. My heart is never heavy with loss, only with pride that he guided us through our childhood by living a dream.

Are you a child protection/domestic violence/social worker? Respect to you. Emotionally tough job.

Thanks Judy, you always manage to find some useful info. I've not been one to join a group of any kind, though the Unitarians seem to be like minded. I appreciate the link and have saved it to my favourites.
Totally agree, shame that my teenage son rebels against the 'caring and considerate' part at the moment!

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

It was only relatively recently that I heard about this concept of a natural burial. Or perhaps I should say that it was only recently that I heard about it being practiced in western society. For the Swazi people amongst whom I grew up in Africa it was the norm. As soon as I heard about it, it resonated with me. The idea clicked, and I just knew, "That's what I want."

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

My mum had a humanist funeral. It was conducted very well and the lady from the local humanist association was a real help to my dad. It's good to have an alternative if you're not religious.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Well, not that I would know about it, but it's what I would like too. I like the idea because my family won't have to worry about conforming to a particular type of ceremony. They can choose what they feel would be fitting. It's not expensive either, cost mum just £1,700 all told. A catholic friend said that her dad's funeral cost £7,000, including a plot within a South London cematary!

Quakers also use the burial grounds that we used. We took a picnic tea and shared it with the friendly German lady that owned the site in her own garden, and were lucky enough to have a sunny June afternoon. Mum has since returned and planted bulbs for the spring.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Cool - anything that takes people away from mainstream Bible'n'tub'thumping'n'fire'n'brimstone and lunacy/mind control gets my thumbs up. :thumbsup:

Rich
[part Jedi, part wiccan, part buddhist, part animist]

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Ya, we're just water and a few minerals after all. A heap of dried dust once all is over and done with. When I pop my clogs I think I'll do the buddhist thing of having my body ripped to bits by the crows from atop a rock on a distant mountain top. Least it will save MOH a few bucks and she can buy some new clothes with the $$$ difference, she's always moaning about going short in that dept.

Rich.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

At the risk of placing my head above the parapet and getting it knocked off, I have to confess that I am a Humanist celebrant, trained and accredited by the British Humanist Association. I conduct around 100 funerals a year, some of which are woodland burials, and a number of Humanist weddings and baby namings. In Britain these funerals are becoming increasingly popular and many funeral directors are geared to contacting a Humanist to conduct a ceremony if the deceased, (in advance of their death) or their family ask for a non religious ceremony.

It is important to say that you do not have to have been a Humanist to have a Humanist ceremony; it is a ceremony with no religious content. Instead of hymns, and prayers there will be instead a tribute reflecting the life of the person, and music, readings and poetry chosen in conjunction with the family. There is actually no requirement to have a funeral ceremony at all, or to use an officiant/celebrant. I have on occasion just acted as an advisor, and the family have conducted the ceremony themselves, though for obvious reasons this is quite rare.

The Humanist Association of Canada have a few trained people who do offer this type of ceremony though my understanding is that they conduct a lot more Humanist weddings (they are legal in Canada but not yet in Britain sadly) and naming ceremonies than funerals. Here in Nova Scotia I have found no evidence of any interest in Humanist ceremonies due primarily to traditional conservative values. Most funeral directors seem to to default to a church minister as they did in Britain until fairly recently. What motivated change in Britain was public demand so perhaps it will change here too. After all there is choice in almost every other aspect of life, why then should there not be choice when it comes to how we plan our deaths.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Cool. :)

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Tsk! You're so dramatic! ;)

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

My dad would have got a kick out of the fact that he has provided a rich compost for the woodland.
Up until his funeral I wanted to be buried at sea, plummeted to the depths bound and weighted, and food for the fish, but this would have been quite costly, and most likely not legal here. I wouldn't want my funeral to be more of a burden than necessary, now I can rest assured that whenever my number is up, my family will have a plan of action to help ease them through their grieving, and will know what to do.

So, all your OH will have to consider is transport to a mountain top where there is no chance of someone finding your body and a police investigation being launched! Wonder if that would be legal and where? :unsure:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Kazakhstan. Most everything is legal there. :thumbup: :thumbsup:

Rich.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

what a great job! So is this something that you will promote in NS then? There must be a percentage of the population that aren't conservative. Do you have to retrain out there? Hope this works out for you, keep us updated on how you do, I'm interested. :)

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I grew up in Mid Wales and this is what one of the local farmers has done to diversify...

http://www.greenlaneburialfield.co.uk/

My OH's uncle had a humanist ceremoney as did one of my friend's Dad's and the families really liked them. One of the main cemetaries in Edinburgh offers woodland burials, too.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

It is a great privilege to do this work and although upsetting at times, particularly if it is a funeral for a baby or young person, it is deeply satisfying helping people achieve the ceremony they want. I think I will have my work cut out in NS getting established, but it will be a test of the old pioneering spirit and I am always up for a challenge.:)

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

This has been a very interesting thread. My mother in law died seven years ago and had a humanist funeral. At the time I had no idea what that was and was really surprised by now beautiful it was. I've always considered myself a humanist ever since, until reading this thread I didn't know I could have had a humanist wedding (we opted for a civil one two years ago), it was lovely but I always felt the ceremony lacked something.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Hi Robin,

When Laura and I got married, we elected for a simple registry office ceremony. Later on (like many) we felt the desire to renew our promise to each other and began to investigate the possibilities.

To our surprise, we found that there was no "civil" equivalent to renewing vows (as done in church). The registrar explained that 'normally' this is a religious ceremony.

After some searching, we discovered a Humanist ceremony that fit our way of thinking and aims perfectly. In 2008, we will have been married for 20 years and we will be celebrating the event with a Humanist ceremony.

Simon & Laura

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Simon, where in Ontario are you going??

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Hi Steve,

We plan to settle (initially at least) in London. We have relatives in Toronto and Kingston.

Are you Ontario as well?

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Ottawa, I was just thinking of the Humanism thing, groups and what have you.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

That's kind. Do you know of any?

Simon:thumbup:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Although humanism rejects the concept of faith, it has essentially become a faith in itself. Also, there are problems with its presumption of man as a rational actor. But is it not just atheism with a bow wrapped round it?

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Not at the moment, I'm not a humanist as in the 'organised religion' kind, in fact it's only this morning since I read this thread that I've learned that it's more widespread than I thought.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

As an aside, are you also settling in Ontario so you don't have to cycle up and down hills?

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Ooooh - so much cynicism in one so young.

When we visited Ontario in 2005 we had a good look around the Orangeville area and found some nice rolling hills that form part of the Niagara escarpment. Surprisingly, Ontario is not as flat as I first thought.

There are loads of clubs and events in Ontario, so I am looking forward to racking up the miles (or kilometres) as soon as I can.

I do have plans to one day ride the Tour de Canada - an epic coast-to-coast of 7550 Km. http://www.tourducanada.com/

I also have a desire to ride the length of the Icefields Parkway - all in good time.

Do you cycle?

Simon:cool:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Thought it might be useful to post what it is humanists believe. If that is atheism with a bow, I am fine with that.

BHA Vice-President Claire Rayner says: "I was a humanist without knowing it for many years before I found the Association - when I did, it was like finding a sort of home. Here were people with a range of views that matched my own, who shared my respect for life in all its forms, and who, above all, did not try to bully other people to follow their beliefs".

From the British Humanist Association:

Humanism

Humanism is the belief that we can live good lives without religious or superstitious beliefs. Humanists make sense of the world using reason, experience and shared human values. We seek to make the best of the one life we have by creating meaning and purpose for ourselves. We take responsibility for our actions and work with others for the common good.

What humanists believe

Humanism is an approach to life based on humanity and reason - humanists recognise that moral values are properly founded on human nature and experience alone. Our decisions are based on the available evidence and our assessment of the outcomes of our actions, not on any dogma or sacred text.

Humanism encompasses atheism and agnosticism ‑ but is an active and ethical philosophy far greater than these negative responses to religion.

Humanists believe in individual rights and freedoms ‑ but believe that individual responsibility, social cooperation and mutual respect are just as important.

Humanists believe that people can and will continue to find solutions to the world's problems ‑ so that quality of life can be improved for everyone.

Humanists are positive ‑ gaining inspiration from our lives, art and culture, and a rich natural world.

Humanists believe that we have only one life ‑ it is our responsibility to make it a good life, and to live it to the full.

cmk03 and Simon - pleased to hear of your positive experiences with humanism.

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Thank you, you are also very kind.


I try to but not as much as I would like, never done competitive riding though. We're bringing out our bikes, but I have problems with those objects at the end of my legs which don't function as they should. I'm hoping to get that right before coming over.

I'm considering fitting skis to the wheels and riding up and down the Rideau Canal Skateway in Ottawa during the winter freeze.

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I have just read through the Wikipedia article on humanism, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humanism it's the first time I've looked at the subject up so I may be talking out of my ar$e as far as rank and file sect members are concerned.

Some points:
"humanists search for truth and morality through human means in support of human interests" and "humanists tend to be less supportive of the animal rights movement than they should be, in sharp contrast to their full support of human rights issues".
Would you say these are broadly correct statements?
If this is a humanist belief then I disagree.

"it supports scientific skepticism and the scientific method, rejecting authoritarianism and extreme skepticism, and rendering faith an unacceptable basis for action." - Something which I personally agree with.

I agree with tableland that humanism is a 'religion', in the sense that it's a group which has sets of rules and guidelines which members live and respond to, it also has, as far as I'm aware, a certain hierarchy within it's membership.

Wrap up a set of beliefs, and give it a label.

<<Resistance to the organized mass can be effected only by the man who is as well organized in his individuality as the mass itself.
- Carl Jung>>

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

Hmmm,

Now we're talking...

According to the Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003:
"religion or belief" means any religion, religious belief, or similar philosophical belief. This does not include any philosophical or political belief unless that belief is similar to a religious belief. The courts and tribunals may consider a number of factors when deciding what is a ‘religion or belief’ (e.g. collective worship, clear belief system, profound belief affecting way of life or view of the world).

According to the UK law, at least, Humanism might be considered to be a religion or belief. I am unsure whether or not 'collective worship' takes place but in all other respects, Humanism seems to fit the definition.

Simon:cool:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I thought you were a 'humanist', or do you just pick out the bits that suit you, like me.

Do humanists have to join, as in go through some sort of signing up or oath thing? Do they have meetings as per masons or quakers?

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I'm not sure I ever said I was a Humanist. I did say that Laura and I rather liked the idea of the Humanist ceremony to celebrate our 20 years of marriage. We do feel strong reasonance with many aspects but as to whether or not we should join... I really don't know.

As for picking out the bits that suit us best - why not? After all, when I last looked I was still fortunate enough to be able to make my own mind up.

For me, belief is personal and I would not expect anyone else to agree with or follow my individual perspective. It's fascinating to see the world through the eyes of others - you don't have to agree or disagree.

I did have a very lengthy conversation once with a Pagan follower and admit that I found much of interest there too.

Simon:cool:

Re: Humanism in the UK & Canada
 

I was expecting a difference of views, instead you've answered as I would have. It was moonraker I was aiming the questions at so maybe he'll enlighten me later.