Vonnegut's Philosophy On Life
Humanism:
What humanism meant to Vonnegut:
"I am a humanist, which means, in part, that I have tried to behave decently without expectations of rewards or punishments after I am dead."
-Friedman, Elaine. (Apr. 18, 2007).Kurt Vonnegut, Humanist, 1922-2007. Humanist Network News. Web. (Quoting from Vonnegut,Kurt.(2005) A Man without a Country, p. 80)
The American Humanist Association defines humanism as:
“a progressive philosophy of life that, without theism and other supernatural beliefs, affirms our ability and responsibility to lead ethical lives of personal fulfillment that aspire to the greater good of humanity” (AHA definition).
As it is a belief system I adhere to as well, my views on it are as follows:
I see it as a philosophy wherein you treat people with respect, try not to hurt anyone, and do not expect anything in return. Humanism lacks the benefits that other religions promise, such as heaven or reincarnation, which is why I prefer it. People act responsibly and considerately because they care about others not themselves.
Basically, don’t be a jerk.
Dates of Interest:
1992: The American Humanist Association named him Humanist of the Year.Vonnegut was an honourary president of the AHA until his death.