How many humanists are there?
Not all those who describe themselves as non-religious could be described as humanist. However, as societies become more secular, humanist groups increasingly take root. The largest humanist group in the world today is in Norway, due to state support. Humanists UK is perhaps the largest group with no such funding, and as of 2021 has 100,000 members and supporters. Humanists International has affiliated groups all over the world, from Europe to India to Nigeria and Uganda. Humanism is a rapidly growing global movement, riding the wave of secularisation.
The persecution of many humanist ideas still exists today, and is a threat to humanism throughout much of the world. However, humanist thinking is now widespread, and throughout much of the Western world one can live as a humanist without fear of punishment or persecution.
In this video Richy Thompson introduces how many people in the UK use the label humanist to describe themselves, and explains that there are many more people who share humanist beliefs and values but remain unaware of the label.
Introducing Humanism: Non-religious Approaches to Life, with Sandi Toksvig
Introducing Humanism: Non-religious Approaches to Life, with Sandi Toksvig
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