Open Society
Website of the New Zealand Association of Rationalists and Humanists
Serving New Zealand's non-religious community since 1927
NZARH FAQ

This FAQ is under construction.

What is a rationalist?
What is a humanist?
What are the Objects of the NZARH?
Do you have to be both a rationalist and humanist to be a member of the NZARH?


What is a rationalist?

A rationalist believes that knowledge and truth are ascertained by using reason and logic, and not by divine or supernatural revelation.


What is a humanist?

A humanist rejects that there is any power or moral value superior to that of humanity; the rejection of religion in favour of a belief in the advancement of humanity by its own efforts.


What are the Objects of the NZARH?

The Objects for which the NZARH is established are:

  • To advocate a rational, humane, and secular view of life without reference to supernatural agencies and which is compatible with the scientific method.

  • To promote a tolerant, responsible, and open society.
    To encourage open-minded enquiry into matters relevant to human co-existence and well-being.


Do you have to be both a rationalist and humanist to be a member of the NZARH?

Membership is open to everyone who signs that they are agreement with the objects of the NZARH and is subject to approval by the NZARH Council. These objects include advocating a view of life without reference to the supernatural, and promoting a tolerant, responsible, and open society. To agree with these objects you are a rationalist and a humanist by the broader meanings of these two words.