FAQ
Is Ethical Culture a religion?
Our members come from diverse backgrounds. Some retain affiliation with a church or temple, but most consider us their complete philosophical home. In addition to humanists, we have many atheists and agnostics, and we also welcome those with a more traditional view of religion who are attracted to our open, non-doctrinal, non-sectarian setting. We don’t ask about a person’s beliefs. We emphasize the positive: What can we do to make the world a better place? Are we a religion or a philosophy? It’s up to each person to decide. And for many people who have chosen to leave the religions of their birth, it is an opportunity to obtain all the social benefits of a traditional congregation.
What are the beliefs of a humanistic community?
The Ethical Society of Boston is a democratic fellowship and spiritual home for those who seek a rational, compassionate philosophy of life without regard to belief or nonbelief in a supreme being.
We value the importance of living an ethical, responsible, and joyful life. We promote intellectual, philosophical, and artistic freedom, avoiding dogma and rigid creed. We nurture a sense of wonder about life, nature and the universe, and are inspired by positive models of human achievement. Shaped by the forces of humanism, democracy, science, and religious reform, we cherish human diversity, and we focus on what we have in common, not on what keeps us apart.
While respectful of the faiths and traditions we have been born to, we serve as a new religion or as an alternative to religion. We believe in deed beyond creed and in working for a better world. We recognize the worth and dignity of every person, and strive to act so as to bring out the best in others and thereby in ourselves.
What is a Sunday Platform and what can I expect at one?
Every Sunday morning at 10:30, we gather at 56 Brattle Street in the Spiegel Auditorium. A typical program features an outside speaker on a topic of ethical concern. The programs have a great variety from week to week – personal ethics, education, politics, philosophy, economics, equal rights and the environment. Some of the Boston area’s most prominent journalists, professors, and artists have been invited.
It’s interactive, so those attending are encouraged to ask a lot of questions during the Q & A. After the formal presentation, the group gathers for coffee and a Q&A/discussion with the speaker.
The Platform format is usually as follows:
- Welcome
- Opening Words
- Musical Selection
- Speaker’s presentation
- Music
- Announcements
- Closing Words
- Refreshment
- Break
- Question & Answer with the Speaker
- We end at 12:30 P.M.
What is expected of me as a visitor?
Just an open mind! The Ethical Society welcomes visitors to all events, but especially to the Sunday Platforms where they can learn about ethical culture and the current topics we’re discussing. Visitors are encouraged to look at the information on the way in, and most importantly, to chat with our members (who are excellent resources!). While we encourage open discussion and debate, we also require respect and tolerance of others.
What is the Ethical Society of Boston?
The Ethical Society of Boston is a non-theistic humanistic religious and educational fellowship inspired by the ideal that the supreme aim of human life is working to create a more humane society. Together we develop our ethical ideals, celebrate life’s joys, and support one another through life’s crises. We work for the improvement of our world and for the future of our children. Membership is open to those who agree with our principles regardless of race, religion, or national origin
Can I come any time without being a member?
Of course! The Sunday Platforms are always open to anyone who wants to attend. The only time that “members only” is during Board meetings. The Ethical Society welcomes visitors to our Sunday platforms, and our hospitality committee will make sure that you feel at home. There is no obligation to join the Society or to donate to it. Because our programming is so varied, we recommend you visit more than once to gain a sense of who we are and what we are about. We especially encourage you to stop by when we are featuring a speaker or discussion on ethics or ethical philosophy.
How do I become a member?
To become a member, contact Margo Woods (ESB President) or talk to her any Sunday at a Platform. We encourage interested people to attend a 30-minute session (usually given once a month) on the history of the Ethical Society where additional questions can be addressed.
Are there other activities besides the Sunday Platform? Is there community service?
The Ethical Society hosts a number of different activities ranging from monthly Potluck Suppers to Book, Movie and Walking Groups. Political action committees and community service activities are planned throughout the year. These are all open to members and non-members. We enjoy new faces and new input. Please see the “What’s Happening” tab for more information.
Can I bring my family? My kids?
Families are always encouraged to attend. However, please let us know if you plan to bring a small child so we can arrange ethical childcare for you.
Do I have to live in Boston to attend?
No! Our members and visitors come from all around Massachusetts to attend. You can get to us via the Harvard Square T Stop.
Who can I talk to if I have questions at an event?
If you have a question about Ethical Humanism, feel encouraged to talk to any member (they’re all wearing buttons with their names on them). If you have a question about how to join, talk to Margo Woods. If you found us online through Facebook, MeetUp, or a number of other calendars and have a question about advertising, talk to Sarah Chandonnet.