Friday, June 27
2:00pm - 2:45pm

On Reason's Shoulders: Reclaiming Love and Emotion in Humanism

For generations, humanism has proudly stood on reason’s shoulders — building an ethical worldview grounded in critical thought, evidence, and human dignity. But what happens when reason alone isn’t enough? In this thought-provoking talk, Chaplain Joe Farkas explores how elevating reason over emotion has shaped not only religious traditions but also modern humanism — sometimes leaving love, empathy, and emotional connection unsaid or undervalued. Drawing on history, philosophy, and personal reflection, On Reason’s Shoulders invites us to consider how humanism must evolve: not abandoning reason, but recognizing its limits. True humanism asserts the unconditional dignity of every person — not because it can be proven, but because we choose to love a more humane world into being. If we wish to build a movement worthy of its name, we must have the courage to say not only what we think — but what we feel.