ATHEISM, AGNOSTICISM & HUMANISM - What's the Difference?

Atheism

Atheists are people who do not believe in a god or gods (or other immaterial beings), or who believe that these concepts are not meaningful. Some atheists put it more firmly and believe that god or gods do not exist. Many people are atheists because they think there is no evidence for god's existence - or at least no reliable evidence. They argue that a person should only believe in things for which they have good evidence.

Agnosticism

Agnosticism (without knowledge) is the view that the truth of certain claims — particularly metaphysical claims regarding theology, afterlife or the existence of god, deities, or even ultimate reality — is unknown or inherently unknowable. Agnosticism is therefore distinct in being the only religious belief system that does not, in fact, involve belief in anything. Agnostics are sceptical of anyone who claims to have all the answers regarding why humans exist, where the universe came from, and whether or not a higher power is responsible for it all. They view hardcore atheists and religious fanatics with equal scorn, and often attribute to them the harm that's done to others as a result of their 'fanatical' attempts to propagate their often extreme views. Most agnostics consider that the comprehension of god is beyond man's capabilities and that there are far better things to do in a brief life span than sit around trying to figure everything out.

Humanism

Humanism is a positive attitude to the world, centred on human experience, thought, and hopes. It is a democratic and ethical life stance, which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. It stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethic based on human and other natural values in the spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities. It is not theistic, and it does not accept supernatural views of reality. Most humanists would argue that there are no supernatural beings; that the material universe is the only thing that exists; that science provides the only reliable source of knowledge about this universe; and that there is no after-life and no such thing as reincarnation. Human beings can live ethical and fulfilling lives without religious beliefs. We should derive our moral code from the lessons of history, personal experience and thought.