What Is Humanism For?

by Norman, Richard (University of Kent)

Philosophy

Published 24/06/2025 by Bristol University Press in the United Kingdom as part of the What Is It For? series.

Paperback | 166 pages, 14 Illustrations, black and white

Religious belief is declining in many parts of the world, yet people still seek purpose in their lives and guidance on how to navigate life’s challenges. Humanism is a broad tradition of thought and action which encourages thinking for yourself about what to believe and accommodating diversity. What is the purpose of humanism in an increasingly secular world?Written by a pre-eminent authority in this field, this book shows how humanism’s purpose is to help people to meet their need to understand the world around them. Given the growing demand for humanist funerals, weddings and baby naming ceremonies, it will help both existing adherents and the “humanism-curious” to contextualise its potential role in making sense of their lives.