research paper on renaissance humanism

Renaissance Humanism

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• Nigel Tubbs  

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Philosophy and rhetoric revive their opposition in the Renaissance as the closed fist of (theological and Aristotelian) orthodoxy and the open palm of (classical rhetorical) humanism. But there are different arenas in which this opposition is played out: in the battle of the books; in the ambivalence inherent in the growth of rational method; in the opposition of dogma and interpretation, of Empire and Church and of speculation and observation; and of course in the opposition between scholasticism and humanism. Again, my interest here is not with a comprehensive historical account of these developments, but rather with the way they illustrate the continuing tension between rhetoric and philosophy, and between freedom and discipline.

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What’s Wrong with Doing History of Renaissance Philosophy? Rudolph Goclenius and the Canon of Early Modern Philosophy

Antagonisms and the Fascinating Adversary: Nicolás Gómez Dávila’s Early Readings of Nietzsche, Marx, and Sade

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Edward Grant argues that natural science was ‘the most significant part of the arts curriculum of every medieval university’; E. Grant,’ science and the Medieval University’ in James. M. Kittleson and Pamela J. Transue, Birth, Reform and Resilience, Universities in Transition 1300–1700 (Columbus, Ohio State University, 1984), p. 71.

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Interestingly, Ballard’s solution to this is ‘the unity of method’ of the liberal arts (E.G. Ballard, Philosophy and the Liberal Arts (Dordrecht, Kluwer, 1989) p. 281)

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Proctor, Humanities , p. 12. See also Jacob Burckhardt’s book The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy (London, Phaidon Press, 1944) and for a critique, see Nauert who argues that while Burckhardt’s thesis dominates views of the Renaissance well into the 20th century, ‘it has only one major flaw: both in its general thrust and in virtually every detail, it is untrue’ (C.G. Nauert, Humanism and the Culture of Renaissance Europe (Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 2006), p. 2).

P.O. Kristeller, Renaissance Thought and the Arts (Princeton, Princeton University Press, 1990), p. 50.

See Ruegg, ‘The Rise of Humanism’, in Ruegg, A History of the University in Europe , vol. 1 (Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 2003), pp. 442–68.

Nauert, Humanism , p. 19. Against Petrarch’s view, Theodore Mommsen notes that ‘the notion of the mediaeval period as the “Dark Ages” is now destined to pass away for good.’ T. Mommsen, ‘Petrarch’s Conception of the “Dark Ages”, Petrarch’s Conception of the “Dark Ages”,’ Speculum , vol. 17, no. 2 (April 1942), pp. 226–7.

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J Hankins, Introduction , in L. Bruni, History of the Florentine People , vol. 1 (Cambridge, MA, I Tatti Renaissance Library, 2001), p. xvii.

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J. Bodin, Method for the Easy Comprehension of History (London, Norton, 1969), p. 15.

On Melanchthon’s contribution to the University of Marburg, see L.W. Spitz, ‘The Importance of the Reformation for Universities’, in J.M. Kittleson and P.J. Transue, Birth, Reform and Resilience (Columbus, Ohio State University, 1984).

P. Melanchthon, Orations on Philosophy and Education , ed. Sachiko Kusukawa (Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1999), p. 93.

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© 2014 Nigel Tubbs

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Tubbs, N. (2014). Renaissance Humanism. In: Philosophy and Modern Liberal Arts Education. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137358929_4

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Renaissance Research Paper Topics

In this comprehensive page on Renaissance research paper topics , we delve into a captivating array of historical subjects that shaped one of the most transformative periods in human history. Within the following sections, we will present an extensive list of Renaissance research paper topics divided into 10 categories, explore the profound impact of the Renaissance on various aspects of society, and provide valuable insights on selecting and crafting exceptional research papers. As a bonus, we will showcase iResearchNet’s writing services, offering students the opportunity to unlock their full potential in academic excellence. Embrace the journey of rediscovering the Renaissance era through the lens of research and academic exploration.

100 Renaissance Research Paper Topics

The Renaissance period was a time of remarkable cultural, artistic, and intellectual growth, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century in Europe. It marked a significant shift from the medieval era to the modern age, reviving classical learning, embracing humanism, and unleashing a surge of creativity across various disciplines. Delving into the captivating realm of Renaissance history, we present a comprehensive list of research paper topics, organized into 10 categories, each capturing a unique facet of this transformative era.

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• Leonardo da Vinci: The Universal Genius and His Masterpieces
• Michelangelo’s David: A Symbol of Human Perfection
• The Sistine Chapel Ceiling: Unraveling the Symbolism
• Raphael’s School of Athens: Portrayal of Renaissance Philosophers
• Titian’s Venus of Urbino: Redefining Beauty in Art
• Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus: Reviving Classical Mythology
• Donatello and the Renaissance Sculptural Revolution
• Jan van Eyck and the Pioneering Techniques of Northern Renaissance Art
• Caravaggio: The Controversial Genius of Baroque Art
• Vermeer’s Mastery of Light and Shadows: The Girl with a Pearl Earring
• Dante Alighieri and The Divine Comedy: A Journey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise
• Petrarch’s Sonnets: The Father of Humanism and Modern Love Poetry
• Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales: A Window into Medieval and Renaissance England
• Shakespeare’s Hamlet: A Tragic Hero in a Changing World
• Machiavelli’s The Prince: A Political Handbook for Rulers
• Montaigne’s Essays: Personal Reflections in a Time of Intellectual Transition
• Cervantes’ Don Quixote: Satire and the Birth of the Modern Novel
• Sir Thomas More’s Utopia: An Exploration of Ideal Societies
• Rabelais’ Gargantua and Pantagruel: Satire, Humanism, and Social Critique
• John Milton’s Paradise Lost: A Religious Epic in a Time of Religious Turmoil
• Copernicus and the Heliocentric Model: Challenging the Geocentric Universe
• Kepler’s Laws of Planetary Motion: Revolutionizing Astronomy
• Galileo’s Observations and the Telescope: Advancements in Science and Technology
• Vesalius and the Fabric of the Human Body: A New Understanding of Anatomy
• Harvey’s Circulation of Blood: Groundbreaking Discoveries in Physiology
• Bacon’s Scientific Method: The Empirical Approach to Knowledge
• Newton’s Laws of Motion and Universal Gravitation: The Foundation of Modern Physics
• The Invention of the Printing Press: Revolutionizing Communication and Education
• The Exploration and Mapping of New Worlds: The Age of Discovery
• The Renaissance Impact on Navigational Techniques and Cartography
• The Renaissance Papacy: The Influence of the Church on Politics and Culture
• The Medici Family: Patrons of the Arts and Political Power in Renaissance Florence
• The Tudor Dynasty: Consolidating Power in England during the Renaissance
• The Habsburg Dynasty: European Politics and Diplomacy in the Renaissance
• The Holy Roman Empire: Challenges and Transformations in the Renaissance
• The Ottoman Empire: Expansion and Cultural Exchange during the Renaissance
• The Role of Women in Renaissance Politics: From Queens to Noblewomen
• The Rise of City-States: Venice, Genoa, and the Renaissance Maritime Republics
• The Thirty Years’ War: Religious Conflicts and Political Realignment in Europe
• The Peace of Westphalia: Redefining State Sovereignty and International Relations
• The Protestant Reformation: Martin Luther and the Ninety-Five Theses
• The Counter-Reformation: The Catholic Church’s Response to Protestantism
• The Council of Trent: Reaffirming Catholic Doctrines and Addressing Corruption
• Erasmus and Humanist Theology: The Quest for Religious Reform from Within
• Savonarola and the Bonfire of the Vanities: Religious Zeal and Cultural Destruction
• The Spanish Inquisition: Religious Persecution and the Quest for Orthodoxy
• The Anabaptist Movement: Radical Reformers in the Early Modern Period
• The Impact of the Reformation on Art and Iconography: From Religious to Secular Themes
• The Printing Press and the Spread of Religious Ideas: Dissemination of Reformist Writings
• The Edict of Nantes: Religious Tolerance and the Challenges of Coexistence
• Humanism and the Rediscovery of Ancient Learning: The Renaissance Intellectual Revolution
• The Influence of Classical Greek and Roman Philosophy on Renaissance Thought
• Pico della Mirandola’s Oration on the Dignity of Man: Human Potential and Freedom
• Giordano Bruno: Philosopher, Astronomer, and Heretic in the Renaissance
• The Impact of Stoicism and Epicureanism on Renaissance Ethics
• Renaissance Neoplatonism: The Search for Spiritual Unity and Harmony
• The Debate on Free Will and Predestination in Renaissance Theology and Philosophy
• The Skepticism of Michel de Montaigne: Questioning Truth and Knowledge
• Machiavelli and Political Realism: The Pragmatic Approach to Politics
• Francis Bacon’s New Atlantis: Utopian Vision and the Advancement of Knowledge
• Palestrina and the Renaissance Polyphony: Sacred Music in the Catholic Church
• The Advent of Opera: Monteverdi and the Birth of a New Art Form
• Josquin des Prez: Master of Renaissance Choral Music
• The Influence of Renaissance Music on Later Baroque Composers
• Orlando di Lasso: The International Composer of the Renaissance
• Gabrieli and the Venetian School: Innovations in Instrumental Music
• The Development of Musical Notation in the Renaissance
• Thomas Tallis and William Byrd: English Renaissance Composers
• Secular Music in the Renaissance: Madrigals, Chansons, and Villancicos
• Music Patronage in the Renaissance: The Role of Courts and Noble Families
• Filippo Brunelleschi and the Dome of Florence Cathedral: Engineering Marvel of the Renaissance
• Andrea Palladio: The Architect of the Venetian Renaissance
• The Medici Villas: Harmonizing Nature and Architecture in Renaissance Tuscany
• St. Peter’s Basilica: Michelangelo’s Architectural Legacy in Rome
• The Influence of Islamic Architecture on Renaissance Europe
• The Renaissance Garden: Artistic Expression in Landscape Design
• The Development of Perspective in Renaissance Painting and Architecture
• The Influence of Renaissance Architecture on Later Periods
• The Renaissance Palaces: Symbol of Power and Prestige
• The Evolution of Renaissance Urban Planning and Design
• The Elizabethan Theater: Shakespeare and the Golden Age of English Drama
• The Globe Theater: An Iconic Venue for Renaissance Theatrical Performances
• Christopher Marlowe: The Tragic Dramatist of the Elizabethan Era
• Commedia dell’Arte: The Italian Renaissance Improvisational Comedy
• The Role of Women in Renaissance Theater: Actresses and Playwrights
• Seneca’s Influence on Renaissance Tragedy: From Rome to the English Stage
• The Impact of Renaissance Drama on Society and Culture
• Renaissance Theater Costumes and Stagecraft: Enhancing the Theatrical Experience
• Moral Themes and Allegory in Renaissance Drama
• Renaissance Theater and the Exploration of Human Nature
• The Renaissance Court: Intrigue, Politics, and Cultural Patronage
• Education and Humanism in Renaissance Europe: The Rise of the Educated Elite
• The Role of Women in Renaissance Society: From Queens to Commoners
• The Renaissance Feast: Culinary Arts and Social Gatherings
• The Development of Banking and Finance in Renaissance Italy
• Renaissance Fashion and Clothing: Style, Status, and Symbolism
• The Printing Revolution and the Dissemination of Knowledge in Renaissance Europe
• Renaissance Medicine and Healthcare: Advancements and Superstitions
• The Renaissance Impact on Family Life and Marriage
• Renaissance Travel and Exploration: Journeys of Discovery and Exchange

Delve into the enchanting world of the Renaissance era through these captivating research paper topics, each offering a unique perspective on one of the most transformative periods in human history. As you embark on your academic journey, may these subjects inspire your exploration and contribute to a deeper understanding of the remarkable achievements and complexities of the Renaissance. The road to intellectual discovery awaits you, as you uncover the rich tapestry of cultural, artistic, and intellectual growth that shaped the course of history.

Renaissance: Exploring the Revival of Knowledge and Creativity

The Renaissance, a remarkable period spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, marked a profound intellectual, cultural, and artistic awakening in Europe. It emerged as a response to the challenges and transformations brought about by the Middle Ages, bringing forth a renewed interest in the classical works of ancient Greece and Rome. This revival of knowledge and creativity laid the foundation for the modern world, shaping the course of history and leaving a lasting impact on various aspects of human civilization.

Rediscovering the Past

The Renaissance was characterized by a fervent desire to rediscover and emulate the achievements of classical antiquity. Scholars and intellectuals sought to study and preserve the works of ancient Greek and Roman authors, including philosophers like Plato and Aristotle, historians like Herodotus and Thucydides, and poets like Homer and Virgil. The translation and dissemination of classical texts were instrumental in spreading ancient wisdom and sparking intellectual curiosity across Europe.

Humanism and the Celebration of Human Potential

At the core of the Renaissance was humanism, an intellectual movement that emphasized the value and potential of the individual. Humanists believed in the power of reason and sought to develop human capabilities in various fields, including literature, art, science, and politics. They promoted education and sought to create well-rounded individuals, known as the “Renaissance man” or “Renaissance woman,” who could excel in multiple areas of knowledge and expertise.

Artistic Renaissance and the Mastery of Realism

The Renaissance witnessed a flourishing of art, with artists exploring new techniques and styles to depict the world with unprecedented realism. This period saw the emergence of legendary artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Titian, who brought forth a level of detail and skill that had not been seen since the classical era. Their masterpieces captured the essence of the human form, as well as the beauty of the natural world.

Patronage and the Medici Influence

The support of wealthy patrons, notably the Medici family in Florence, played a crucial role in the flourishing of the arts during the Renaissance. These patrons sponsored artists, architects, and scholars, providing them with the resources and opportunities to create their finest works. The Medici, in particular, were influential in nurturing artistic talent and promoting cultural exchange.

Scientific Advancements and the Pursuit of Knowledge

The Renaissance also witnessed significant advancements in the field of science. Pioneering minds like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, and Johannes Kepler challenged the geocentric model of the universe and proposed the heliocentric model, which placed the Sun at the center of the solar system. These breakthroughs laid the groundwork for the scientific revolution that would follow in the centuries ahead.

Literary and Linguistic Achievements

In addition to the revival of classical literature, the Renaissance also witnessed the development of vernacular languages, such as Italian, English, French, and Spanish, as literary languages. Writers like Dante Alighieri, Geoffrey Chaucer, and Miguel de Cervantes contributed to the elevation of their respective languages through their literary works, such as “The Divine Comedy,” “The Canterbury Tales,” and “Don Quixote.”

Religious Reformation and the Impact on Art and Thought

The Renaissance coincided with the Protestant Reformation, led by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin. This movement challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to religious conflicts across Europe. The impact of the Reformation on art and thought was profound, with artists and intellectuals grappling with questions of faith, morality, and individual spirituality.

Scientific Method and the Empirical Approach:

The Renaissance saw the emergence of the scientific method, an approach to inquiry that relied on observation, experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning. This marked a departure from the reliance on ancient authorities and paved the way for modern scientific inquiry, laying the foundation for the Age of Enlightenment.

Architecture and Urban Planning

Renaissance architects, inspired by the classical orders and principles of ancient Roman architecture, designed magnificent structures, including cathedrals, palaces, and public buildings. The era also witnessed advancements in urban planning, resulting in the creation of elegant cities and well-designed public spaces.

Legacy of the Renaissance

The legacy of the Renaissance continues to reverberate throughout the centuries, leaving an indelible mark on human history. Its impact on art, science, literature, philosophy, and politics laid the groundwork for the subsequent periods of intellectual and cultural growth, shaping the modern world we inhabit today.

The Renaissance, a time of intellectual and creative rebirth, remains a source of fascination and inspiration for scholars and history enthusiasts alike. The revival of knowledge, the celebration of human potential, and the pursuit of artistic excellence during this period continue to captivate our imagination and remind us of the enduring power of human ingenuity. As we explore the rich tapestry of the Renaissance, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound transformations that shaped the course of history and continue to influence our lives today.

How to Choose Renaissance Research Paper Topics

Selecting the right research paper topic is a crucial step in the academic journey, especially when delving into the vast and fascinating world of the Renaissance. With such a diverse and influential period in history, choosing a research paper topic can be both exciting and overwhelming. To assist you in this process, we have compiled a comprehensive guide with ten tips to help you navigate through the myriad of possibilities and select a compelling and engaging Renaissance research paper topic.

• Understand the Renaissance Period : Before choosing a research paper topic, it is essential to develop a solid understanding of the Renaissance period. Familiarize yourself with the historical context, major events, key figures, and prevailing cultural, intellectual, and artistic trends. This foundational knowledge will provide you with a broader perspective to identify specific areas of interest for your research.
• Identify Your Area of Interest : The Renaissance covers a wide range of subjects, including art, literature, science, politics, religion, philosophy, and more. Determine your area of interest and identify topics that resonate with you personally. Choosing a topic that captivates your curiosity will make the research process more enjoyable and productive.
• Narrow Down Your Topic : The Renaissance is a vast and multi-faceted period, so it is crucial to narrow down your research topic. Rather than attempting to cover the entire Renaissance, focus on a specific aspect, individual, city, or theme within the period. For example, you could explore the impact of the Renaissance on a particular region, such as Renaissance Florence or Renaissance England.
• Consult Secondary Sources : Conduct preliminary research using secondary sources, such as books, academic journals, and reputable websites. Secondary sources will provide you with insights into the existing scholarship on various Renaissance topics, helping you identify gaps in the research and potential areas for exploration.
• Formulate a Research Question : Once you have identified your area of interest, develop a clear and concise research question. A well-defined research question will guide your investigation and provide a focus for your paper. Make sure your research question is specific, relevant, and open to exploration.
• Consider Primary Sources : Incorporating primary sources in your research is essential for delving deeper into the historical context and gaining a firsthand perspective. Primary sources may include letters, diaries, artwork, speeches, and other contemporary materials. Accessing and analyzing these sources will enhance the authenticity and credibility of your research.
• Evaluate the Feasibility of Your Topic : Consider the availability of resources and the feasibility of conducting research on your chosen topic. Ensure that there is sufficient information and materials available to support your investigation. If your topic is too obscure or lacks credible sources, it may be challenging to develop a comprehensive research paper.
• Consult with Your Instructor or Advisor : Seeking guidance from your instructor or academic advisor can be valuable in refining your research paper topic. They can provide valuable feedback, suggest additional resources, and offer insights into potential research avenues.
• Stay Open to Revision : As you delve deeper into your research, be open to revising your research topic if necessary. You may discover new information or angles that lead you to modify your focus. Flexibility is key to ensuring your research paper evolves organically and addresses significant aspects of the Renaissance.
• Be Passionate and Curious : Ultimately, the most successful research paper topics are born out of passion and curiosity. Choose a topic that ignites your enthusiasm, as your passion for the subject will drive you to explore it thoroughly and produce an exceptional research paper.

Selecting a Renaissance research paper topic requires a careful balance of curiosity, knowledge, and focus. By understanding the period, identifying your interests, and formulating a specific research question, you can narrow down your options and choose a captivating topic that will engage readers and showcase your academic prowess. Embrace the opportunity to explore the rich and transformative era of the Renaissance, and let your research paper unveil the profound impact it had on the course of human history.

How to Write a Renaissance Research Paper

Writing a research paper on the Renaissance is an exciting endeavor that allows you to explore a period of history marked by a profound revival of art, culture, and knowledge. As you embark on this academic journey, it is essential to approach the writing process with a systematic and thoughtful approach. In this section, we will guide you through the steps to craft a well-structured and compelling Renaissance research paper.

• Conduct In-Depth Research : Before diving into the writing process, conduct thorough research on your chosen topic. Utilize both primary and secondary sources to gather relevant information and gain a comprehensive understanding of the Renaissance era. Take notes and organize your research material to streamline the writing process later.
• Develop a Strong Thesis Statement : Your thesis statement is the backbone of your research paper. It should present the main argument or point of your paper in a clear and concise manner. A strong thesis statement will provide direction to your writing and help readers understand the purpose of your research.
• Create an Outline : Organize your research and ideas into a well-structured outline. An outline serves as a roadmap for your paper, helping you arrange your thoughts logically and ensure a smooth flow of information. Divide your paper into sections and subsections, each supporting a specific aspect of your thesis.
• Introduction : Begin your research paper with an engaging introduction that provides context to the Renaissance era and presents your thesis statement. Hook your readers with a captivating opening and offer a brief overview of what they can expect from your paper.
• Provide Historical Context : In the introduction or early sections of your paper, provide the necessary historical context for readers who may not be familiar with the Renaissance. Highlight the key developments, events, and influential figures that characterize this period.
• Use Proper Citation and Referencing : When citing sources and referencing historical materials, adhere to the citation style specified by your instructor, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago/Turabian. Accurate and consistent citation ensures the credibility and authenticity of your research.
• Analyze Primary Sources : If your research includes primary sources from the Renaissance, analyze them critically. Offer insights into the significance of these materials and their relevance to your research topic. Use direct quotes or paraphrasing to support your arguments.
• Present Clear Arguments and Evidence : Each section of your research paper should present clear arguments supported by relevant evidence. Analyze your research findings and draw connections between different aspects of the Renaissance to strengthen your arguments.
• Address Counterarguments : Acknowledge and address potential counterarguments to your thesis. By engaging with opposing viewpoints, you demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the topic and present a more well-rounded research paper.
• Provide Critical Analysis : In addition to presenting information, offer critical analysis of the Renaissance era and its impact on society, art, politics, and culture. Demonstrate your ability to evaluate historical developments and draw meaningful conclusions from your research.
• Conclusion : Summarize the key points of your research and restate your thesis in the conclusion. Offer insights into the significance of your findings and how they contribute to the broader understanding of the Renaissance period.
• Revise and Edit : After completing the first draft, take time to revise and edit your research paper. Review the content for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Check for grammatical errors, typos, and formatting issues. Consider seeking feedback from peers or instructors to gain different perspectives.
• Embrace Your Voice and Style : While adhering to academic conventions, let your unique voice and style shine through in your writing. Engaging and passionate writing will captivate your readers and make your research paper more enjoyable to read.

Writing a Renaissance research paper is a rewarding experience that allows you to explore the rich and transformative era of history. By conducting thorough research, developing a strong thesis, and presenting clear arguments supported by evidence, you can create an exceptional research paper that sheds light on the Renaissance’s enduring impact on human civilization. Embrace the opportunity to delve into this extraordinary period and let your passion for history shine in your writing.

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The Real History of Humanism

Humanism has a long and sophisticated history. Secular humanism encourages us to believe that humanism was born and faded in ancient Greece, then reborn in the renaissance as part of the narrative that includes the enlightenment and the modern era. This is only true if we take a very limited view of humanism. In fact, humanist philosophies that deny the supernatural and emphasise the human have been a central part of the development of civilisation over the last two thousand years. This paper unpacks an alternate, more historically accurate and inclusive history of humanism. In this history, humanism begins in ancient Asia and transmits to Europe, China, the Middle East, and back to Europe. In each case, there is a clear point of cultural and conceptual contact, as well as a significant development in the overall philosophy of humanism. NOTE: this paper is the first in a series tracing the development of humanist thought across Eurasia. Subsequent papers detail the development of humanist spiritual, ethical, legal and professional systems through Buddhist & Taoist Indo- China, Han China, Medieval Islam, and modern medical practice respectively.

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Over the course of history, many humanist cultures have come and gone, each developing the notions of a human-centred and worldly philosophy in a different manner. Modern humanism is secular and traces itself to the Renaissance through the Enlightenment, but the real origins of humanism are much further back in history, and are spiritual in nature. The first verifiable examples of humanist thinkers occurred in around 600BCE, with the thinkers Siddhārtha Gautama and Lao Tzu.These thinkers began the Eurasian tradition of humanism by rejecting notions of divine authority and metaphysical entities other than the universe itself. In doing so, they outlined a spiritual humanism that is excluded from the prevailing notions of humanism. This is because the principal strand of contemporary humanism is secular humanism, which insists that religions have nothing to offer humanism as a philosophy, as exemplified by thinkers such as Richard Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens. This rejection includes belief systems that are tarred with the brush of religion, despite having no gods or metaphysical rules. In conflating philosophical systems like Buddhism and Daoism with religion, modern humanism weakens itself by ignoring its history. In the first, internal case, putting Buddhism and Daoism in humanism’s history has benefits for internal discussions within humanism, since it forces a critical awareness of a lineage at least as old as many major religions. Secondly, there is a spiritual aspect that has historically been the most stable form of humanism, but has been lost in the modern era. Perversely, secular humanism often appears inhuman to those who reject the hard scientistic stance, and acknowledging the contributions of Buddhism and Daoism offers a humanism that fits with, rather than rejecting, their previous models of thought. NOTE: this paper is the second in a series tracing the development of humanist thought across Eurasia. For an overview and details on how the philosophy developed and 2 was transferred across Eurasia, please see the first paper, which presents a historical overview. Subsequent papers detail the development of humanist ethical, legal and professional systems through Han China, Medieval Islam, and modern medical practice.

Humanism is a broad system of values, a program of learning, and a historical development that does not belong to a particular period, people, or place. It cannot be confined within the European context, in particular the Renaissance period, as Lauro Martines does by describing humanism as “a program for the ruling classes”. Martines’ class analysis does well in capturing the class dimension of the Renaissance, the misuse of humanism as a political tool by the elites. However, his analysis is only applicable to a certain place which is Europe, and at a particular time, the fifteenth century. Hence, to describe humanism as merely an elite propaganda is only to recognize a characteristic of the Quattrocento humanism than humanism more broadly. To get a better conceptualization of humanism, this essay aims to take humanism outside its later stages of development in Europe and into the Islamic world wherein earlier stages of development had taken place. Therefore, a great emphasis is given to Islamic humanism.

American Historical Review, 2000

Free Inquiry, 2018

In 2015, Israeli historian Yuval Noah Harari published Sapiens, a sweeping and widely acclaimed history of humankind. In it, he discusses a phenomenon he calls humanism. Humanism, as he defines it, is a family of “religions (that) worship humanity, or more correctly, homo sapiens.” This worship of humanity, he argues, has made modernity “an age of intense religious fervor, unparalleled missionary efforts, and the bloodiest wars of religion in history.” The crimes of genocidal Nazism, Stalinist communism, and environmental destruction, he argues, can all be traced to the central tenets of humanism. In this published exchange of letters, philosopher Andy Norman and historian Yuval Noah Harari debate the meaning and legacy of humanism.

Filozofija i drustvo, 2013

Primerjalna književnost, 2018

The question of a human person, which is the starting point of every humanism, is the initial, fundamental, almost inevitable question of every culture. On the other hand, it is highly complex and practically impossible to delimit. If one sees humanistic thought as philosophical anthropology, its character is understandably transcultural, one that can appear anywhere in history, and is always radical: it reaches the very foundations of culture and civilization. In this sense, it can be seen as a universal human phenomenon. In its narrower sense, the origins of humanism are marked by the return of Western Europe to the forgotten sources of its cultural identity, hidden in classical antiquity. Moreover, its peak, the Renaissance, is defined by its artistic achievements, which are nevertheless founded in the sphere of intellect and in its new understanding of being human. In this perspective, humanism is one of the most significant and complex phenomena in European cultural history. It is difficult to imagine any research project ignoring its variety. This is the topic to which this particular volume is primarily dedicated. Both established as well as younger European scholars explore different literary, philosophical, ethical, aesthetic, religious, cultural, and social aspects of humanism. Most of the studies highlight its historical dimension: humanism was grounded in ancient literature and thought, and has shaped the conceptual framework of reception and interpretation of antiquity for centuries (Weiss, Kersten, Movrin, and Senegačnik). At the same time, its cognitive and ethical dynamics developed and upgraded its traditions, and thus directed the flow of European culture and, in some respects, even transformed the foundations of its civilization. However, humanism was not shaped exclusively by its relation to antiquity: a valuable source, as well as contrast to its anthropology, was medieval Christian anthropology, mainly as reflected in its supreme expression, Dante’s poetry (Širca). In the following chapters, history is analyzed from several perspectives: on the one hand, there are investigations of conceptual movements in the understanding of the world, time and human being, which have expanded the general, “global” horizon of humanistic thinkers (Szönyi, Molnár, Łukaszyk). On the other hand, there is research exploring national and regional luminaries (Marinčič on the influence of P. P. Vergerius on P. Trubar, Pobežin on P. P. Vergerius, and Hriberšek on Ž. Herberstein) and literary phenomena. These studies frequently redefine the established literary and historical image of the humanist period. The second thematic area of this volume is devoted to the challenges of humanism. To the influence of its central ideas on contemporary culture, particularly on literature (Kuret); to cognitive, ethical, and social dilemmas arising from the conflict of humanistic anthropology and the new patterns in understanding the human condition; and finally to the possibilities opened up by the fresh readings of the humanist tradition. The studies of this volume offer several original insights and new perspectives on the cultural issues of the present time, with contributions that analyze the fundamental experience of humanity in the horizon of humanistic self-understanding (Russo). With globalization as well as with the revolution in media and communication, humanistic culture faces radical changes, which require new reflections regarding the concept of individual disciplines (Zabel).

Humanism is a secular philosophy that is gradually replacing traditional religion, but few know about this movement that has its roots as far back as Aristotle and his Naturalistic perspective (all that exists is natural, there is no god or gods or supernatural). How does one find meaning without religion? How does one know right from wrong or have the motivation to do the right thing without a god enforcing morality? This paper examines 60 points were Humanism and religion have different perspectives and thus provides a deep understanding of this philosophy based on science, reason, compassion, empathy, and hope in the destiny of mankind.

Philosophy Journal, 2019

«MUNERA», Quaderno 2019, pp. 73-96, 2019

1. Humanism: the byname of European civilization 2. Jurisdictional function of humanism 3. The dignity of man and the superiority of judgement over force 4. The experiential nature of humanism and the relationship between rhetoric and speculation 5. A distinction: humanism and humanistic 6. Contemporary prejudices about humanism: subjectivism and anti-scientificity 7. The principal cultural dimensions of the problem: religion and utopia 8. Conclusion: a method for research.

Journal of Multicultural Discourses

Tebliğ/Bildiri, 2018

Hacia la construcción de una didáctica lúdica y grupal, 2013

Acta Universitaria, 2003

Global Intellectual History, 2019

International Journal of Communication, 2019

Hydrological Sciences Journal, 2011

A Economia em Revista (AERE), 2023

Phlebology: The Journal of Venous Disease, 1996

Allergy, 2015

International Journal of Creative Research Thoughts(IJCRT), 2024

Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research), 2022

International Journal of Public Information Systems, 2013

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