Humanists Strive to Be Ethical

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Humanists Strive to Be Ethical

Literal meaning

Ground morality in the capacities of living beings to suffer and flourish, using reason and compassion.

Broader interpretation

This item should be interpreted within the historical purpose, intended audience and wider structure of its parent ethical framework.

Historical context

This item belongs to Amsterdam Declaration 2022. Adopted in 2022; International humanist movement; adopted in Glasgow.

Practical meaning

Practical application requires attention to intention, consent, evidence, rights, foreseeable effects and the needs of all persons or beings affected.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct, judgment or character in a way consistent with the wider framework.

Exceptions and disputes

Reason and compassion can conflict or remain incomplete without transparent methods of priority.

Variations across schools or traditions

Wording and interpretation may vary between translations, denominations, schools and historical periods.

Modern application

Modern application should distinguish the historical formulation from present legal, social and ethical conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Reason and compassion can conflict or remain incomplete without transparent methods of priority.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle through evidence, intentions, rights, foreseeable consequences, consistency and the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

• Treatment of animals
• Justice
• Compassion
• Human dignity

Sources

• The Amsterdam Declaration 2022 Primary source