Humanism

Definition

An intellectual outlook which emphasised human reasoning and enquiry, encouraging people to question accepted explanations.

Used by Edexcel

Paper 1

Renaissance scholars continued to read these works, but humanism encouraged them to use their own reasoning rather than accept an explanation simply because an ancient writer supported it. The weakening authority of the Church also created more room for alternative explanations.
Revise: Ideas About the Cause of Disease

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GCSE History · key term

An intellectual outlook which emphasised human reasoning and enquiry, encouraging people to question accepted explanations.

Used by Edexcel

Paper 1

Renaissance scholars continued to read these works, but humanism encouraged them to use their own reasoning rather than accept an explanation simply because an ancient writer supported it. The weakening authority of the Church also created more room for alternative explanations.
Revise: Ideas About the Cause of Disease

Create a free account to read GCSE History revision notes for your exam board and track your progress.