Discussion: Religious Identity and Ethical Culture
The illustration above is ambiguous. Does it advocate “No Religion” or does the red slashed circle negate the idea of “No Religion”? So it is with Ethical Culture.
The status of Ethical Culture as a “Religion” has long been a source of disagreement and debate amongst its members. Felix Adler, the founder of Ethical Culture, set the stage for this ambiguous position when he wrote:
The Ethical Movement is religious to those who are religiously minded and it is simply ethical to those that are not so minded…
This places Ethical Culture in the unique position of being a religious organization where many of its members do not consider it to be a religion.
What do you think? What leads you to your conclusion?
Using the Texas Court of Appeals decision in Strayhorn v. Ethical Society of Austin, TX. as a starting point, we will address what constitutes a “Religion” and, more importantly, do you consider Ethical Culture to be a Religion. Please read this 12 page court decision before the discussion (link above).
Is Ethical Culture/Ethical Humanism your Religion? Come tell us why or why not.
Discussion Leader: Randy Best, Northern Virginia Ethical Society
Date: Thursday, May 23rd, 8 – 9:30 PM Eastern Time
Course Fee: No Fee for this Discussion Course but Registration is Required
Registration: This discussion is sponsored by the American Ethical Union, Register HERE
