Love and compassion: why humanism is considered the highest moral value?

In 2015, the number of people living on Earth has exceeded the threshold of 7 billion people, and this number is steadily increasing every day. Against the background of overpopulation of the planet, some people may wonder: why humanism is considered the highest moral value? It's very simple: the denser the population of the planet, the more often there are conflicts concerning borders, resources, economy, religion and so on. And if not for the principles of humanism, all these conflicts would be solved only with the use of violence, and not through peaceful negotiations.

What is humanism?

Like any philosophical trend, humanism does not have clearly defined boundaries and boundaries, so it is difficult to give it a precise definition. First of all, humanism is a love for a person, and it does not matter at all whether this person is a Hindu, an Arab, a Chinese or a Russian. According to the concept of this philosophical current, all people are equal, and every life is an invaluable gift.

But why humanism is considered the highest moral value? A short answer in this case will not be given, because to begin with you need to realize the full force of this word. And for this you should turn your eyes to the origins of the emergence of humanism.

The history of the birth of humanism, as a whole philosophical trend

Humanism originated in the Renaissance, becoming its symbol. This current, with its innovative idea of the importance of the human "I", has caused many objections. After all, before that the center of the universe was God, and there was nothing more important than it. All the concepts of medieval Europe revolved around this idea, and the church, endowed with boundless power, watched to ensure that this order was not violated.

But nothing lasts forever, including the authority of the church. The Renaissance was known for its fearless thinkers who, not being afraid of the punishment of the Inquisition, broke the habitual stereotypes and founded a new direction called humanism. Based on their considerations, each person is endowed with a divine spark, which means that his life is sacred. That is why humanism is considered the highest moral value, and so vehemently protected by the philosophers of that time.

Over the years, this idea has evolved, and now humanism is a very common concept that occurs in many cultures. Moreover, even religion has managed to use this concept, though, somewhat distorting its essence.

What is humanism in society?

If the history of the emergence of this term is more or less clear, then what about how it all works in real life? What is his role in society, and why humanism is considered the highest moral value?

According to generally accepted theories, humanism is inherent in all people, without exception, because it is he who helps to peacefully co-exist with individuals, thereby forming a society. The problem is that over time, under the influence of external psychological programs, humanism is suppressed by our consciousness. An example of such social attitudes can become religious dogma, age-old traditions, cruelty of others and so on. Nevertheless, humanism or love for one's neighbor is within each of us.

That is why in modern society so much effort is spent on fully realizing this philosophical direction and directing it for the benefit of all people. After all, love and compassion can help in those difficult times, when serious conflicts arise between people, companies or even entire peoples. Only humanity can save from the shedding of blood and senseless murders.

In addition, humanism elevates man to the first place. Consequently, the study of one's own "I" is extremely important for the followers of this current. It was humanism that allowed the introduction of such concepts as self-knowledge and self-improvement.

Also, according to experts, this philosophical concept helps progress. The reason is that humanism creates an environment in which people respect each other's friend, and this allows us to build trusting relationships. Believe that in difficult times you will not be abandoned and will help. All this allows you to move forward, not looking back with fear.

How difficult is it to be human?

And yet a full answer to the question: "Why humanism is considered the highest moral value?" - it is impossible to give. After all, the very concept of humanity and love for one's neighbor is very vague, and everyone sees it in their own way. One can devote himself without hesitation to helping hungry people in Africa, and the second acquaintance will refuse a piece of bread.

For this reason, most organizations for the protection of human rights and freedoms are now trying to convey to the people the full significance of humanism, to explain the depth of this word and how important it is for all of us. After all, it is impossible to be a person without being humane to others.