Humanist Café : Do you feel you’ve made the most of your life ?

6 March 2025 by

At our latest Humanist Café, we delved into some of life’s biggest questions: Have you truly lived or merely existed? Do you feel you’ve made the most of your life? These thought-provoking questions sparked deep and meaningful conversations among a diverse group of participants, with a balanced mix of younger and senior voices bringing unique perspectives to the discussion.

As the conversation unfolded, two key themes emerged:

A Sense of Belonging – Many shared that their most meaningful moments in life were shaped by the relationships they built, the communities they became part of, and the sense of connection they felt with others. Whether through friendships, family, or shared experiences, finding belonging played a crucial role in making life feel fulfilling.

The Purpose of Life – The discussion naturally led to reflections on what gives life meaning. For some, it was about pursuing passions and personal growth. For others, it was about making a difference in the lives of others or embracing new experiences with curiosity and courage.

One of the most powerful moments of the evening was when participants were asked: “Share one moment from your life when you felt truly alive.” Many spoke about experiencing the beauty of nature—whether it was standing before a breathtaking sunset, hiking in the mountains, or simply watching the waves crash onto the shore. These moments, filled with awe and wonder, reminded us of how deeply intertwined we are with the world around us.

The Humanist Café once again proved to be a space for open dialogue, reflection, and meaningful exchanges. It left us all with one important takeaway: Life is not just about existing—it’s about finding joy, purpose, and connection in the journey.

We look forward to more conversations that challenge, inspire, and bring us together.

Join us for the next session!

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, Humanist Cafe

Secular Assembly : Celebrating Charles Darwin.

6 March 2025 by

Our second Secular Assembly of the year was held on 22 February 2025. Featuring an intriguing talk that dispelled common myths about reactions to the theory of evolution, the Assembly once again invited attendees to connect, learn and reflect.

The Assembly began with a tour of the Harmony in Diversity Gallery. This gallery celebrates Singapore’s multi-cultural society and depicts the importance of getting along with others of different creeds.

Indeed, while differences of belief are part of a healthy society, they can also lead to ridicule and conflict. For example, it’s easy to assume that Charles Darwin’s ground-breaking theory of evolution was met with an angry backlash from everyone in his time.

This brings us to our guest speaker Dr John van Wyhe, a historian of science at NUS who has also spoken at our past Darwin Day events. Through an engaging presentation on his research into historical caricatures of Darwin and evolution, Dr van Wyhe showed that many contemporary reactions to Darwin’s ideas were in fact more light-hearted and less dismissive than one might have assumed.

Dr van Whye’s insights gave attendees an appreciation of religious contexts and historical shifts regarding reactions to the theory of evolution, and sparked a lively Q & A session. Other highlights of the Assembly included a rousing rendition of “That’s What Friends Are For” by Dionne Warwick, led by our intrepid president Nora. The event closed with a gratitude exercise, a welcome pause to reflect on interconnectedness and aspects of our lives for which we felt thankful.

See you at the next Assembly where we will continue to enjoy food for thought and build the humanist community!

Complete work of Charles Darwin online

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, Secular Assembly

Exploring the Outdoors: Nature Walk at Rifle Range Nature Park

6 March 2025 by

On February 15th, members of the Humanist Society (Singapore) came together for a refreshing morning walk at Rifle Range Nature Park. Surrounded by lush greenery and the calming sounds of nature, it was a wonderful opportunity to step away from the hustle of daily life and reconnect with the natural world.

One participant summed it up perfectly: “It was great to get out in nature and hang out with folks.” The walk was not just about enjoying the scenic trails but also about meaningful conversations, shared laughter, and the simple joy of being present in the moment.

By the end of the walk, a common sentiment emerged—“I wish we could do this like twice a month.” The enthusiasm for more nature outings is heartening, and we look forward to organizing more walks in the future. After all, what better way to nurture both body and mind than by immersing ourselves in nature?

Stay tuned for our next adventure!

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, HSS Socials

Hanging out with Humanists: Darwin, Dawkins, and a Dash of Lo Hei!

6 March 2025 by

Friday 7th February Hanging Out with Humanists was a lively mix of new faces, deep discussions, and delicious traditions! We welcomed three new guests into our ever-growing circle, and since it’s Darwin Month, it was only fitting that we engaged in some evolutionary discourse… and a bit of natural selection in conversation too!

The heated debate of the night? Natural selection and gender identification! Darwin might not have envisioned this particular topic when writing The Origin of Species, but if he were at our table, he’d probably have furiously taken notes (or quietly excused himself).

To keep things fun, we played “Who Said It: Darwin or Dawkins?”, where quick-thinking participants had to guess whether a quote came from the father of evolution or the father of sharp-tongued atheism. Correct answers were rewarded with special gifts—though, unfortunately, we couldn’t offer survival of the fittest as a prize.

Of course, no gathering is complete without touching on world affairs—we also discussed the growing concerns over Muslim refugees in Europe, US politics on illegal immigration, and perhaps the most pressing issue of the night: Why can’t we get REAL pork bacon in Singapore’s McDonald’s?! (A moment of silence for this injustice.)

And since it’s still Chinese Lunar New Year, we ended the night with a spirited Lo Hei session—because nothing screams humanist camaraderie like tossing food in the air and shouting wishes for luck, health, and maybe even a future where SG McDonald’s serves pork bacon.

As always, it was an evening filled with laughter, deep discussions, and a good dose of chaos—just the way we like it! Until next time, stay curious, stay skeptical, and may the best adaptations win!

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, Hanging Out with Humanist

Reflecting on Our Mindfulness Workshop with Brahm Center

6 March 2025 by

The Humanist Society (Singapore) had the privilege of collaborating with Brahm Centre to host a mindfulness workshop led by Ms. Ya Wen. Mindfulness is more than just a practice— it is a way of living that allows us to cultivate awareness, presence, and emotional resilience in our daily lives. In a fast-paced world filled with distractions, mindfulness helps us reconnect with ourselves, offering clarity and balance in the midst of life’s demands.

One of our participants, Peter Huber, shared his experience:

“I attended the mindfulness presentation today and it was amazing. It was very practical, with exercises on how to feel your body and stay in the present moment. I guess I will integrate that head and shoulder stretching exercise into my daily life—it has already helped me lessen some neck pain. Another exercise focused on tuning into different body parts, something I learned 30 years ago in Germany as ‘Autogenes Training.’ It helped me become a less nervous person. We also explored the interaction between feelings and the body. Everything was very practical and enjoyable.”

Workshops like these remind us of the importance of self-care and mindfulness in our daily routines. Whether it’s a simple stretch, a moment of stillness, or recognizing how our emotions influence our physical well-being, these small but meaningful practices can make a significant difference in how we navigate life.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. Ya Wen and Brahm Centre for this insightful session. Brahm Centre is a registered charity dedicated to promoting mental well-being through mindfulness-based programs, health talks, and wellness courses. They offer a range of evidence-based programs, including stress reduction, resilience-building, and mindfulness training for individuals from all walks of life. We look forward to bringing more enriching experiences to our community.

More about Brahm Center

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Secular Assembly – Jan 2025

27 January 2025 by

On 25-Jan-2025, our Secular Assembly offered an inspiring mix of creativity, personal growth, and collective sharing. The event kicked off on a high note as everyone united in singing “Firework” by Katy Perry, setting an upbeat and celebratory atmosphere right from the start.

Our highlight speaker, Bertram, then took the stage to share his journey as a coach. With enthusiasm and authenticity, he detailed the evolution of his career and introduced his innovative AI Ikigai webapp—a tool designed to help individuals uncover their life’s purpose. The interactive demo invited the audience to try the app firsthand, sparking engaging discussions about the blend of technology and personal development.

The session continued with heartfelt personal stories from our community. Koi Hin recounted his experiences from a personal retreat, sharing valuable insights on balancing mind, body, and spirit. His reflections resonated deeply with many, encouraging us all to embrace holistic well-being. Adding another layer to the tapestry of experiences, Lionel also shared his personal journey. His story, rich with challenges overcome and transformative insights gained, provided a unique perspective that underscored the power of resilience and self-discovery.

Overall, the Secular Assembly was a celebration of individual narratives woven together by a shared commitment to growth and community support. The day reminded us that every personal story enriches our collective journey, inspiring us to keep exploring new paths towards a more fulfilled and balanced life.

Blog, Featured Articles/Letters, Press, Secular Assembly

Conversation on Humanism: Irreligiosity and Mental Health

27 January 2025 by

On 25-Jan-2025, we hosted an insightful session as part of our Conversation on Humanism series on Irreligiosity and Mental Health.

This engaging discussion explored the intersection of secular values and mental well-being, addressing key questions like: How does irreligiosity influence mental health, and how can we, as humanists, foster resilience and support?

Key Highlights

Understanding Humanism and Mental Health:

The session began with a broad exploration of humanism, emphasizing its values of compassion, reason, and community. Participants discussed how these principles shape mental well-being in secular contexts.

Insights from Mental Health Statistics and Research:

We delved into local mental health statistics, including findings from the Institute for Health Metrics and Sofia Wellness Clinic, highlighting the growing challenges faced by Singaporeans.

Studies on the relationship between religion and mental health, such as the Straits Times report, were discussed alongside the unique experiences of irreligious individuals.

Debunking Stereotypes:

There is a common misconception that irreligious individuals lack purpose or face higher rates of depression and suicide simply because they don’t adhere to a faith community. However, mental health is influenced by a variety of factors genetics, environment, social support, and personal life experiences rather than religious affiliation alone.

Irreligious people, like those with a religion, can find meaning in family, friendships, personal goals, or ethical and humanitarian values. This highlights that a lack of religious belief does not inherently lead to poor mental health; well-being is shaped by complex, multifaceted influences.

Interactive Activity:

An engaging session on values and coping mechanisms encouraged participants to reflect on their personal approaches to mental health and how their values shape their resilience.

A Humanist Approach

We discussed the “three-prong approach” to mental health which emphasises a holistic framework. It involves three key dimensions:

1. Psychological: Humanism and Mental Well-being

Focuses on fostering emotional resilience and self-awareness through reason, critical thinking, and evidence-based practices like journaling, mindfulness and therapy to build a supportive communities were shared as effective tools for maintaining mental well-being.

2. Existential: Building Meaning and Purpose

Humanists seek answers to life’s big questions—such as existence, morality, and the afterlife—through reason, critical thinking, and shared human experience rather than doctrine. They value personal growth, embracing evolving perspectives shaped by curiosity, compassion, and fairness.Meaning is often found in relationships, creativity, scientific exploration, and contributions to society. Whether through deep personal connections, artistic expression, activism, or altruism, humanists recognize that purpose is self-created and enriched by the positive impact we have on others and the world around us.

3. Social: Supportive Community

Providing a safe and inclusive spaces where irreligious individuals can openly share beliefs, experiences, and support. Rooted in empathy, reason, and respect for autonomy, these communities help combat isolation and foster a sense of belonging.Beyond social connections,  we should promote secular mental health initiatives, including access to non-religious therapists, peer support groups, and evidence-based well-being programs. By encouraging open dialogue and resilience, these efforts ensure that individuals can seek help and thrive without religious judgment.

The session concluded with an open discussion and a call to action, acknowledging that Compassion is at the heart of building strong, supportive secular and humanist communities. By fostering meaningful connections, we create inclusive spaces where individuals feel valued and understood. We encourage everyone to seek support when needed and extend kindness to those around them, reinforcing the humanist commitment to mutual care, empathy, and shared well-being.

A quote by Robert G. Ingersoll beautifully captured the essence of the evening: “Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here.”

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for this meaningful conversation. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events, including the next session in the Conversation on Humanism Series!

Blog, Conversations on Humanism, Events, Featured Articles/Letters

HSS Socials: Movie and Game Night

25 January 2025 by

On 24-Jan-2025, a member initiated a movie and game night, and it was a resounding success! The event brought together a delightful mix of new faces and long-time members, some of whom we were thrilled to welcome back after a long absence. It was heartwarming to see everyone reconnecting and enjoying each other’s company in a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere.

The evening kicked off with games—many of us learned how to play mahjong and sharpened our skills at pool. Laughter and cheers filled the room as participants discovered hidden talents or simply enjoyed the camaraderie.

After the games, we gathered for the feature movie of the night, Heretic, which did not disappoint! Hugh Grant’s chilling portrayal of a psychopath kept us all on edge, while the unexpected plot twists had the group collectively gasping with “aahs” and “oohs.” It was refreshing to share the thrill of such a gripping film together as a community.

Of course, no movie night would be complete without food, and we indulged in a feast of pizza and KFC, perfectly complementing the electrifying atmosphere. Sharing a meal while engaging in lively post-movie discussions made the night even more enjoyable.

This event marked our first movie and game night, but it’s certainly not the last! The success of the evening reminded us how vital and rejuvenating it is to gather as a community, share experiences, and create lasting memories.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made the night so special. We look forward to seeing you at our next event! 

Blog, Featured Articles/Letters, HSS Socials, Press

Hanging Out with Humanists Updates

15 January 2025 by

These are updates from Hanging Out with Humanists from Sep 2024 to Jan 2025, starting from the most recent.

Jan 2025

Eugene’s Rare Appearance and The Case of the Empty Plates!

On 04-Jan-2025, our hangout session got a delightful twist when our revered veteran, Eugene, graced us with his presence. Although he pops in only once in a blue moon, when he does, his wise words and cheerful vibes remind us that our society is on the right track.

Joining our usual merry band—and a few eager newcomers—everyone gathered for an evening of hearty laughs, thoughtful advice, and a touch of mystery. Speaking of mystery, if you took a peek at the group photo and wondered where everyone went, fear not! The empty plates on display are not evidence of a ghost town but a clever nod to our camera-shy members, who prefer to let the plates (and their appetites) do all the talking.

A big shout-out to Eugene for the nuggets of wisdom and to everyone who made this session unforgettable. Until next time—keep the empty plates ready for more fun and unexpected appearances!

Dec 2024

December was our last hanging out session of the year at Han’s Union in Springleaf, and it was a pleasure to welcome several new faces to our circle. As always, the conversation was delightfully loud and full of laughter — just the way we like it! The energy in the room was tangible, and it was wonderful to see newcomers quickly feel at home among us.

We’ll continue to make Han’s Union our go-to hangout spot for as long as they’ll have us. It is also in a convenient location, close to the MRT and bus stations, making it easy for anyone to pop by without fuss. On top of that, the food there is both tasty and reasonably priced, and the friendly staff often let us claim our usual corner to ourselves. It’s the perfect backdrop for our lively discussions and good-natured banter.

If you haven’t joined any of our socials yet, we’d love to see you at our next gathering. Bring your curiosity, your sense of humor, and be ready for some engaging conversations with fellow humanists. We’re always eager to meet new people and share ideas in a fun, relaxed atmosphere!

Nov 2024

We had our regular crew plus two new faces, who were brave enough to join us. As always, the night was a perfect mix of laughs, chatter, and just enough decorum to remind us we’re not a stand-up comedy club… yet!

Oct 2024

We welcomed our regulars alongside four new guests, including two ladies – one an expat opera singer, who surprised us with a beautiful rendition of The Name of the Rose theme. True to our lively spirit, the night was filled with laughter and good company, as usual, but with that signature dose of respect for all!

Sep 2024

September’s Hanging Out with Humanists session was a lively gathering as always, with the usual crowd joined by two new faces. One was a familiar friend of HSS, resurfacing after a two-year hiatus, and the other was a newcomer curious to learn more about who we are and what we do. We spent some time explaining our society’s work and values to her.

As always, the chatter was loud and enthusiastic, with our signature pink T-shirt draped over a chair, signaling our presence. The discussions covered the conference that was held in August with a briefing for those who couldn’t make it, and a buzz of excitement around our Anniversary and Appreciation Dinner on 26-Oct-2024. Look out for this announcement!

The topic of the night? The Pope’s visit—yes, even Humanists get excited about that! Meanwhile, another group engaged in a serious debate about the truth: the ultimate truth versus the perceived truth.

It was another memorable evening of connection, conversation, and, of course, a lot of laughter.

Blog, Featured Articles/Letters, Press, Uncategorized

Secular Assembly – Dec 2024

28 December 2024 by

Our last event of the month was the lively Secular Assembly held at HDG on 28 Dec 2024, complete with an optional 45-minute excursion through the HDG gallery. For those who arrived early or simply wanted to explore, the gallery tour offered a fascinating look at the venue’s history, exhibits, and art pieces that beautifully complemented the spirit of our gathering.

Year-in-Review Reflection
After the gallery excursion, our co-founder and Secular Assembly Programme Director, Dan Thio, led a guided reflection session on three key areas: health, relationships, and meaningful work or passions. Through a series of thoughtful prompts, participants took a moment to identify their personal achievements, challenges, and the valuable lessons they learned over the course of the year. This introspective exercise allowed everyone to connect more deeply with themselves and to consider how they might carry these insights into the new year.

Sing-Along Session
Rounding out the evening was a sing-along led by our enthusiastic member, Lava. We sang two tunes that captured both the festive mood and the sense of togetherness at this time of year:

• Christmas Is a Time to Say I Love You

• Auld Lang Syne

Voices rose in unison, bringing a heartwarming close to our December events. Whether you joined for the gallery tour, the reflection, or simply for the good company, we appreciate everyone who made this final Secular Assembly a memorable one! We look forward to welcoming you at future gatherings as we continue to foster community, personal growth, and humanist values.

Blog, Featured Articles/Letters, Secular Assembly
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