On June 22, 2024, the Humanist Society of Singapore commemorated World Humanist Day OnePeople.sg.
World Humanist Day is an annual celebration promoting the positive values of humanism and addressing global issues. For 4 hours, attendees engaged in insightful discussions and presentations.
The event commenced with registration at 12:30 PM followed by an opening speech where President Nora provided a brief introduction to the Humanist Society of Singapore (HSS), highlighting its track record and ongoing activities.
Guest speaker Dr. Hakim Young gave his presentation on “Embracing Humanity: Beyond Binary Ideals.” Dr. Young emphasized the importance of kindness and empathy in human interactions, challenging traditional moral frameworks and advocating for a more inclusive society.
Nora presented “Humanistic Perspectives in End-of-Life Issues.” Her presentation explored the humanistic approach to terminal illness, emphasizing dignity, autonomy, and holistic care. Nora highlighted principles such as respecting autonomy in end-of-life decisions and providing compassionate support to individuals and their families facing difficult circumstances.
Founding President Paul Tobin delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the “Future of Humanism.” Paul highlighted global trends, including the rise of non-religious populations worldwide (even in Middle East and Southeast Asia) and in Singapore. He said that in the future, humanism will have to make itself relevant to social justice causes, environmental conservation, and ethical considerations in emerging technologies.
Paul gave three major conclusions: affirming the enduring presence of humanists and non-religious individuals in Singapore, advocating for their role in shaping societal advancements, and addressing emerging ethical challenges posed by technologies like artificial intelligence and transhumanism.
The event had panel discussion at 3:00 PM, where participants explored strategies for the Humanist Society to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world. Discussions revolved around community engagement, education initiatives, and advocacy efforts to promote humanistic values across diverse demographics.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees engaged in thoughtful dialogue, reflecting on the principles of humanism and their application in contemporary issues.
