Throughout history, religion has shaped people’s culture, society, and a sense of morality. But what role does it play in the progressive modern world? In a secular state? Can one be a good person without “faith”?
Both non-religious and religious participants coming from different schools, civil society and organizations were able to explore these questions during the TAO – A Café Humaniste held at Silliman Library, Dumaguete City on August 5.
It was an opportunity to create a safe space to discuss the themes of humanism and secularism, and how they can improve everyone’s life, both individually and collectively.
In his talk “Religion, History, and Society,” speaker Junelie Anthony Velonta discussed the three origins of religion; Hypersensitive Agency – Detecting Device (HADD), Theory of Mind (TOM), and the Group Level Adaptation.
The speaker as well pointed out the strikingly similarity of Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, to other gods in other religions. He also delved on the role of religion in the days of old and how it has affected today’s society in the Philippines.
“While religion may indeed help in nation-building, but a part of it is exploited,” said Velonta.
Second guest speaker Jong Poblador talked on the outcome of raising a child to be open-minded and morally good without religion through her talk “Nurturing a Freethinker.”
Poblador brought in a few points starting with the protection of each child from religious indoctrination. She also cited the differences between children who were indoctrinated and those who were not brought up into any religion.
The event ended with a question-and-answer segment and a giving of token and certificate to the guest speakers.
This is the third of a series of four Café Humaniste events in the Philippines brought to you by Humanists International and Humanist Alliance Philippines International (HAPI). Organized by HAPI – Dumaguete Chapter.
What do you think should we talk about on our next Cafe Humaniste? Let us know!
