Humanism – for a more humane future
The members of our association are committed to a humane, dignified future. They are not striving for this better future for themselves alone, but together with all people of good will for the whole of humanity. We are convinced of the possibility of improving human living conditions. A more humane world is possible. This is what we are passionately and jointly committed to. We do not rely on help from a higher being. Our members are not religious. We see people in this world on their own. They can only set or find meaning for themselves in this life.
Humanists rely on a scientific explanation of the world and conscious ethical reflection. They criticize any dogmatism, strive for rationally comprehensible reasons themselves and expect the same from others. We view the diversity of different lifestyles and lifestyles as an enrichment of society and advocate the protection of this diversity.
The principles that guide members of the HVD are: Worldliness Self-determination, individuality, solidarity and tolerance.
The roots of humanism go back to the poets and philosophers of ancient Greece, ancient Rome, Confucian China and classical India. Modern humanism emerged during the Renaissance. It led to the development of today’s science and inspired new ideals of social justice.
We are involved in the ethical discourse in many areas of society and are committed to ensuring a sufficient basis for life for all people, for democracy and peace, for human rights, for a nature and environment that sustains life and is worth living in.
Practical humanism – to make life more successful
We are not content with humanity as an idea. Our humanism should be realized in practice. We support and encourage people in different areas and stages of life. Our practice ranges from daycare centers to hospices, from humanistic life studies to the Humanist Academy, from naming ceremonies to eulogies. We strive to implement humane ideas and humane conditions in all areas.
Humanistic values cannot always be easily reconciled with one another in the concrete practice of life. Self-determination can come at the expense of social responsibility, and vice versa.
Our practical work helps us with the constant and difficult challenge of weighing up and implementing our own convictions and has an effect on our outlook on life and our world view. We are aware that we humans are beings who can make mistakes and fail, but who can also have the strength to learn and start again.