What do humanists believe about human destiny?

Humanists uphold the belief that human destiny is not dictated by external divine forces or predetermined outcomes but can be actively shaped and influenced by human beings through their own actions, choices, and efforts. This perspective emphasizes the potential for individuals to effect change in their own lives and in the world around them through reason, empathy, and creativity.

This belief aligns closely with the humanistic focus on autonomy and personal responsibility, suggesting that individuals have the capability to create meaning and purpose in their lives. It is rooted in a rational and secular understanding of the world, encouraging a proactive approach to ethics and decision-making. The idea that human destiny can be influenced by human agency contrasts significantly with notions of predetermination or the notion that external forces alone drive human existence.