Humanistas

Humanistas are adherents of humanism, a philosophical and cultural stance that centers on human value, reason, education, and ethical concern for others. In Spanish-speaking contexts, the term can refer to supporters of both secular and religious forms of humanism, as well as to scholars and practitioners of the humanities.

Historically, the term is linked to Renaissance humanism (14th–16th centuries), a movement that revived classical learning and emphasized critical study of languages, literature, history, and moral philosophy. Its proponents sought to reform education and civic life by consulting classical models and promoting a secular, civic humanist ethic. Prominent figures include Petrarch, Boccaccio, and Erasmus, whose work helped establish the studia humanitatis as a core curriculum in Europe.

In modern usage, humanistas may describe teachers, researchers, and students in the humanities, as well as advocates of secular ethics based on reason, scientific understanding, and human rights. Religious humanists combine humanist ethics with religious or spiritual beliefs, while secular humanists ground ethics in human well-being rather than doctrine.

The term is widely used across the Spanish-speaking world and in international contexts to discuss culture, education, and public life from a human-centered perspective.