Past Present Future The History of Revolutionary Ideas: Humanism
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Feb 2, 2025 Join historian Eric Nelson, an expert on the intersections of history and philosophy, as he delves into the fascinating world of humanism. Discover how this medieval movement emerged from crises like the Black Death, reshaping thoughts on authority and individualism. Eric discusses the transformative influence of ancient texts on modern ideals and the movement's complex relationship with Christian beliefs. He also highlights the contributions of key figures such as Petrarch and Machiavelli, illustrating humanism's enduring impact on politics and morality.
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Humanism's Origins and Goals
- Humanism, a 14th-century Italian movement, revisited ancient texts and ideas to reshape the present.
- It aimed to address a perceived civilizational crisis and challenge existing power structures.
Distinguishing Humanism
- Humanism wasn't just about reading ancient texts, as those were already studied before.
- Its distinctiveness lay in the broader cultural program, the attitude towards these texts, and the intent behind studying them.
Humanism and Crisis
- 14th-century Europe faced a civilizational polycrisis, marked by institutional collapse and widespread catastrophe.
- Humanism emerged as a response, seeking solutions in ancient wisdom amidst the decline of the Church and Empire.