The Principles of Secularism

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Holyoake, George Jacob, 1817-1906

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"The Principles of Secularism" by George Jacob Holyoake is a significant philosophical text written during the mid-to-late 19th century. The book serves as a comprehensive treatise on the concept of Secularism, which Holyoake distinguishes from both theology and atheism, providing a framework for understanding human welfare and morality through a secular lens. It aims to guide individuals towards a life based on reason, ethics, and social responsibility, eschewing the reliance on religious doctrines. In "The Principles of Secularism," Holyoake outlines the foundational principles of Secularism, advocating for a moral framework based on human experience and rational inquiry rather than religious dogma. He explains that Secularism emphasizes the importance of human welfare in the present life, promoting moral actions that are verifiable and beneficial to society. Throughout the text, Holyoake critiques theological influences that discourage reason and emphasizes the significance of individual rights to think, assert, and debate without fear of persecution. He calls for greater understanding and cooperation among those who embrace Secularist principles, highlighting the necessity of organizing efforts toward improving the conditions of humanity through material and moral progress. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Credits:

Produced by David Widger

Notes:

Reading ease score: 47.3 (College-level). Difficult to read.

Release date is 2011-07-20