What is Humanism? Humanism is an intellectual and cultural movement that began in Renaissance Europe (13th and 14th centuries), especially in Italy. It focuses on human life, human values, and human potential rather than only religious or divine concerns. It is one of the main reasons why the Renaissance is seen as a period of “rebirth.” Origin of the Term The term humanism was first used by 19th-century scholars to describe the Renaissance focus on classical education. This education was known as studia humanitatis , which included subjects like grammar, rhetoric, poetry, history, and moral philosophy. These studies were inspired by the idea of humanitas , a concept developed by Marcus Tullius Cicero, the Roman statesman, lawyer, scholar and writer. Humanitas became the central ideal of humanism and shaped the entire movement. Humanitas refers to the full development of human qualities. It includes not only kindness, compassion, and understanding but also strength, wisd...