QI and GBBO host face of new FutureLearn course
Television host Sandi Toksvig has spoken openly about her views as a humanist, and her role as patron to the non-religious organisation Humanists UK.
The out QI and Great British Bake Off presenter is the face of a new course called “Introducing Humanism: Non-religious Approaches to Life” on the free online learning portal, FutureLearn.
Speaking about a video introducing the course, Sandi explains: "We live in an increasingly pluralistic world. We are surrounded by a diversity of beliefs."
“Today, an increasing number of people are not religious. Many believe that the universe is a natural phenomenon with no supernatural side. They believe that this is the one life we have. And they want to lead ethical, meaningful, and fulfilling lives. People like humanists.
“I’m Sandi Toksvig. I’m a humanist, and I’m a patron of Humanists UK. I’m fascinated by life’s big questions.
"Questions like, ‘How should I live?’, ‘How can I know what is true?’, ‘How should I treat others?’, and ‘What kind of world do I want?’"
FutureLearn bills the course as for anyone, "looking to develop their understanding of humanism."
Continuing, Sandi adds: “I think it’s vital everyone gets the opportunity to explore different approaches to these questions, but also that we have the freedom to decide on the answers for ourselves. There is widespread misunderstanding about what it means to be a humanist, or to live a life without religion.
"During this course, we’ll provide you with a deeper understanding of the humanist approach to life and of how humanists answer life’s big questions. We’ll explore the tensions and dilemmas contained within a humanist view, as well as the arguments against it, and the responses humanists give to those arguments.
“You’ll find contributions from academics, humanist campaigners, celebrants, pastoral carers, and members of the public to help widen your awareness of what it means to be one of the millions of humanists living in the UK and around the world today.”
For more on the course click here 📚​
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