Humanism Now | Secular Ethics, Curiosity and Compassionate Change 53. David B McLaughlin on Five Humanistic Values for Living Well
Oct 19, 2025
Join David B. McLaughlin, a leadership coach and author, as he shares insights from his book on humanism and its five values for living well. He emphasizes dignity as an ethical foundation that prevents dehumanization. Discover the PIDLA model of meaning, blending purpose, interconnection, and rituals to anchor secular values. McLaughlin explores how reason and compassion collaborate to promote awareness and justice, especially in workplace equity. He encourages taking tangible actions to foster humanism and leave a positive impact on the world.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Humanism Resonates In The Bible Belt
- Living in Oklahoma's Bible Belt, David noticed many people initially misunderstand humanism as hostile to religion.
- Once explained, people often find they already share many humanist values despite religious identity.
Dignity As Moral Foundation
- Human dignity is intrinsic and cannot be earned or revoked by actions or status.
- Denying dignity to some people begins a historical downward spiral that harms all of society.
Preserving Dignity Even For Perpetrators
- David recounted his detective brother prosecuting sex crimes to illustrate preserving dignity even for perpetrators.
- He argues justice can be pursued without stripping intrinsic human dignity from anyone.
