Reviewing the place of Humanism in religious education

Abstract

ABSTRACT The purpose of this article is to review the place of Humanism in religious education in England and Wales and to initiate a debate on the importance currently accorded to it. Our discussion begins with a short account of historical efforts to include the study of Humanism in religious education, followed by an equally short account of more recent educational policy documents and reports supporting the inclusion of Humanism. Our enquiry considers the issue of how many (self-identifying) humanists there are, for it is in terms of adherents and supporters that humanists often frame their case for inclusion. The relationship between those who identify as humanist and those who identify as non-religious is then considered. This is followed by a review of the place of Humanism in a small sample of agreed syllabuses. The conclusion is reached that there is a case for a reassessment of the degree of focus on Humanism in religious education. This conclusion raises challenges for religious educators going forward, two of which are considered and positive policies are proposed.