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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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

A Celebration of Life – Nov/Dec 2024

23 December 2024 by

29 Nov 2024

We hosted our very first Celebration of Life gathering, a heartfelt event dedicated to embracing life’s precious moments. This was a time to celebrate milestones, honor the inspiring legacies of others, and revel in the sheer joy of being alive. Together, we celebrated the birthdays of Yew Hwee Hong, Ashwini, and Lava, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with gratitude and camaraderie. The gathering was a meaningful pause to reflect on life’s beauty and the connections that make it so special. Here’s to many more such moments of shared happiness!

22 Dec 2024

To close out the year on a joyful note, we held our final Celebration of Life meetup, honoring the moments that make life extraordinary—birthdays, the memory of inspiring individuals, or simply the everyday joy of being alive. This time, it was a Mookata Night at Phuket Town Mookata in Ang Mo Kio on 22 Dec 2024, and it couldn’t have been more fun!

Great Food and Great Company
We indulged in a sizzling spread of delicious and reasonably priced Mookata, sharing laughs, stories, and the warmth of a close-knit community. New friends and familiar faces came together around the table, making it a truly memorable evening.

A Special Birthday Celebration
Amid the clinking of cutlery and lively banter, we also had the pleasure of celebrating NeoSree’s birthday, complete with a birthday cake. Everyone joined in with well-wishes, turning the night into a heartwarming blend of celebration and camaraderie.

It was the perfect way to wrap up the year, reflecting on life’s precious moments and cherishing them together. Here’s to many more meetups filled with shared meals, laughter, and collective gratitude for life’s gifts! 

And if you find yourself with no one to celebrate your birthday or achievements, don’t worry—reach out to us, and we’ll celebrate with you!

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, HSS Socials

Humanist Cafe Dec 2024 – Navigating relationships across different beliefs and faiths

14 December 2024 by

Our final Humanist Cafe of 2024 focused on a theme that resonates with many of us: how to nurture and sustain relationships when beliefs and faiths differ. It was a warm, enlightening session where participants openly shared their personal stories and insights.

One participant, for instance, spoke candidly about her experience marrying into a different cultural and religious background—a journey that began with “culture shock” due to various traditional beliefs and superstitions she wasn’t familiar with. When asked, “Why did you decide to marry this person?” her response highlighted the importance of character over creed:

“He was humble and genuinely caring toward others. That was what caught my attention.”

Their relationship blossomed from a simple friendship into love, and eventually led to marriage. Now, more than 25 years later, she has learned to adapt and accommodate her partner’s cultural practices and religious customs. She attributes her flexibility and open-mindedness to humanist values, which encourage empathy, respect, and an acceptance of diversity.

This moving story underlined our discussion about the importance of focusing on shared humanity rather than differences in beliefs. By embracing humanist ideals, we can broaden our perspectives, build deeper connections, and find harmony in even the most diverse environments.

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters, Humanist Cafe, Press

Hiking with Humanists at Kent Ridge Park & Alexandra Park

8 December 2024 by

We recently embarked on a refreshing morning hike through the lush greenery of Kent Ridge Park and explored the iconic black-and-white bungalows of Alexandra Park. The day began with a gentle climb and panoramic city views, offering a glimpse into Singapore’s wartime past. Along the way, lively conversations flowed—true to the spirit of any Humanist event!

Here’s a lovely note we received from one of our participants:

“Thanks for leading such an enjoyable walk last Saturday, 7th December 2024. I appreciated the warm welcome from all those I walked with and talked to over brunch at the hawker market. It was a really interesting route and for a lover of vernacular architecture, the black-and-white bungalows were a real bonus!”

Strolling through Alexandra Park, we soaked in the unique colonial charm of these historic homes. By the end of the hike, everyone left with a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s green spaces and our architectural heritage—and, of course, plenty of happy memories and new connections.

If you missed out this time, don’t worry—more adventures await! We look forward to seeing you at our next event for more exploration, camaraderie, and the warm humanist spirit.

Blog, Events, Featured Articles/Letters

Survey for interest on Sunday Assembly

1 May 2024 by

The Sunday Assembly movement was started in London, UK by comedians Sanderson Jones and Pippa Evans in 2013. They had both been churchgoers in their youth, stopped going and then realised they missed something; not the religious part, but rather the community, the stimulation, the singing, the being with others, the tea and cake afterwards. So they set up Sunday Assembly to see if a ‘church-like thing without religion’ could be done. And it could!

We at HumanistSG wants to know if you would like to attend and join such a community!

A typical Assembly program consists of (in no particular order) and lasts about 1 hour:

  • Songs – pop songs, or even songs of religious origin if they are lovely to listen and sing to
  • Speakers– on science, history, or current affairs to get you thinking and discussions going
  • Reading – This could be a poem or other short piece, related to the talk or not
  • Doing Your Best – Someone shares a personal story about something going on in their life. It could be something they have been grappling with, striving at, succeeded with, failed but learned from, or are involved with that’s worth sharing. It’s about reminding each other that we’re all trying the best we can.
  • Moment of Reflection – Invite the group to do a short reflection e.g. 2 minutes.
  • Life Happens – Invite the group to share highs and lows in their life.
  • Gratitude – Invite the group to express gratitude to their loved ones and others in life
  • Announcements

Spend a few minutes to fill up the survey here, and even stand a chance to win $10 NTUC e-vouchers!

https://forms.gle/NX7MgWk8L2RyeNDU9

Survey is open between 01 – 30 May 2024.

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