IAH’s Goals and Activities

Summary

The Institute for Applied Humanism is a Humanist think tank whose primary purposes are to research and advance the scientific understanding of Humanism; to educate people about, Humanism as a worldview, a life stance, an egalitarian value system, and a scientific naturalistic philosophy; to promote, protect, and develop Humanist values; and to foster development and application of Humanism in society, including educating people about Humanist principles in adult educational programs and schools. Its policy work extends from a general public policy focus at all levels to the particular policies of individual corporations and nongovernmental organizations.

Social and Cultural Research and Education

IAH undertakes and publishes research on social issues of the day. That work is oriented toward advancing the societal effort to find solutions to social problems. IAH’s work on cultural education includes organizing and facilitating cultural exchanges among Humanists and Humanist organizations across the US and in other countries. It also educates people about Humanism and, in particular, works to counter misinformation and prejudice about it.

Research and Education on Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Policy

IAH undertakes and publishes research on public policy solutions that correspond to the human values of Humanism. That research elaborates and justifies progressive ideas that advance Humanist democratic organizing to make society better. While IAH engages with public policy makers in order to devise solutions that can receive sufficient support to be adopted, it strictly limits its lobbying activities to particular policies.

Research and Education on NGO and Business Policy

IAH undertakes and publishes research on the policies of businesses and nongovernmental organizations. By necessity that research focuses on policies advantageous or prejudicial to Humanists. It also examines policies compatible with or inimical to the full range of Humanist values, in order to educate the public about positive and negative actions by those organizations.

Research and Education on Education Policy

IAH undertakes and publishes research on education policy resulting in creation of teaching materials for use in public and private schools. That work also evaluates methods of teaching that reflect principles of Humanism, as well as methods of organizing and operating private schools that teach principles of Humanism.

Approved September 23, 2023