ten commandments of rational humanism // rodrigue tremblay

"The term ‘Ten Commandments’ here does not refer to any divine revelation, since rational humanists do not generally accept a higher being such as a god. On the other hand, some people might criticise rational humanism as being ‘just another religion’ with its own laws and creed. It is probably reasonable to say that humanism has more organisations and associations than do atheism or agnosticism.

These ‘commandments’ provide a good summary of the important issues for rational humanists.

The ten rules of living and of social behaviour of rational humanism for a more harmonious and just world:

1. Proclaim the natural dignity and inherent worth of all human beings, in all places and in all circumstances.

2. Respect the life and property of others at all times.

3. Practise tolerance and open-mindedness towards the choices and lifestyles of others.

4. Share with those who are less fortunate and mutually assist those who are in need of help.

5. Use neither lies, nor spiritual power, nor temporal power to dominate and exploit others.

6. Rely on reason and science to understand the Universe and to solve life’s problems, avoiding superstitions which numb the mind and are an obstacle to thinking by oneself.

7. Conserve and improve the earth’s natural environment—land, soil, water, air and space— as humankind’s common heritage.

8. Resolve differences and conflicts cooperatively without resorting to violence or to wars.

9. Organise public affairs according to individual freedom and responsibility, through political and economic democracy.

10. Develop one’s intelligence and talents through education and effort, in order to reach fulfilment and happiness, for the betterment of humanity and of future generations."

these precepts sound well and good. my only qualm is with #2. respecting the property of others at all times? surely a case could be made against that...

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