What Is Humanism For?

by Richard Norman

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 the 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.

166 pages, Paperback

Published June 24, 2025

Reviews

[Michael Heap · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoughtful analysis of the meaning of humanism and its place and purpose in the modern world. Highly academic and well-argued, and a good read for the serious student and advocate of humanism. But let's bear in mind that understanding what humanism is about and how it is put into practice in everyday life are what matters most and are not difficult to understand - think rationally and scientifically about the big questions of life, follow the Golden Rule, respect other people's beliefs, strive to make the world a better place and so on. So the book is not required reading for ALL humanists.

[Charles Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful introduction to modern Humanism.