[Avodah] Humanism

[Efraim Yawitz]

Regarding the recent discussion of humanism & Judaism, here is a
definition from Merriam-Webster:

1 a: devotion to the humanities : literary culture b: the revival of
classical letters, individualistic and critical spirit, and emphasis
on secular concerns characteristic of the Renaissance
2: humanitarianism
3: a doctrine, attitude, or way of life centered on human interests or
values ; especially : a philosophy that usually rejects
supernaturalism and stresses an individual's dignity and worth and
capacity for self-realization through reason

I think some of the participants mean #2 and should really use the
more precise word humanitarianism.  Those who said that Communism is
humanist are quite right according to #3.