Which one of the following is not true about 'Humanism'?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 4:
Humanism is a philosophy that emphasizes the value and agency of human beings, individually and collectively, and generally prefers critical thinking and evidence over dogma or superstition. While Humanism advocates for liberty, justice, and the betterment of human life, it is crucial to understand that it is a movement and a philosophical outlook, not an actual historical event or legal decree that possesses the power to eliminate all societal evils. The concept of exploitation, in its various forms (economic, social, political), is still widespread globally. Therefore, stating that "Humanism has ended all forms of exploitation from society" is factually incorrect and represents an idealistic, unachieved outcome rather than a true statement about the movement's impact. This statement is the one that is NOT true about Humanism.

The incorrect option is 1:
The core of Humanism, particularly during the Renaissance, was shifting focus away from divine matters (God-centric) towards human potential and achievement (man-centric). Philosophers and artists began to place humanity at the center of their moral and philosophical inquiries, making the statement that Humanism is a man-centric philosophy fundamentally true.

The incorrect option is 2:
The European Renaissance (14th to 16th centuries) is universally recognized as the period that marked the revival of classical learning and thought, which directly fostered the birth of Humanism. This movement championed reason, empirical observation, and critical thought, effectively giving rise to a reliance on logic and reason over purely medieval religious authority.

The incorrect option is 3:
William Shakespeare (1564–1616) is a prime example of a Renaissance figure whose works embody Humanistic values. His literature is famous for focusing deeply on the complexities of human character, emotion, motivations, and worldly struggles, rather than solely religious or allegorical themes, making this statement a clear reflection of historical literary development.