Humanism was a movement that started in the Renaissance, focusing on the importance of people and their abilities. Unlike earlier beliefs that emphasized religious views and obedience to the Church, humanists looked more at human experience, reason, and creativity. They believed that individuals could shape their own lives and had the power to make meaningful choices.
This shift changed how people saw the world in several ways. First, it encouraged curiosity and exploration of new ideas, leading to advances in science, art, and literature. People started to question old beliefs and seek knowledge through observation and experience rather than just tradition.
Second, humanism promoted the idea that everyone has worth and potential. This helped pave the way for greater appreciation of personal freedom and the importance of education. Overall, humanism inspired people to see themselves as active participants in shaping their own futures, rather than passive followers of religious authority. This new way of thinking laid the groundwork for modern values like individual rights and self-expression.