Humanist principles stress the importance of the individual, of scientific methodology, and of human needs. The basic principles of humanist beliefs concerning the world and the position of human beings in natural and social worlds are reviewed. (IS)

Human beings must develop both a rational acceptance of unfolding scientific knowledge and an attitude of caring and tolerance for all lives. Supernatural conceptions are almost always exclusive concerning some aspects of reality and have often been the basis for inhumane conduct. Everyday we create our lives. (CS)

The basic American tradition asserted the need for self-development, respect for nature, and universal human cooperation. After the Civil War the country opted to follow a "profit at any cost" philosophy and turned its back on these values. It is time to return to this humanistic spirit. (CS)

The dialectical capacity of human consciousness enables us to generate alternatives in opposition to previous conditioning. Transcending one's acculturation need not leave one searching for gurus. Authentic personal meaning may be attained from an existential reawakening. (RM)