Which descriptor best fits the intellectual movement known as humanism?

The descriptor that best fits the intellectual movement known as humanism is an emphasis on human potential. Humanism emerged during the Renaissance as a response to the medieval focus on religion and the divine, shifting attention instead to human beings, their experiences, and their capacities. This movement valued individualism, the exploration of human nature, and the importance of personal achievement and self-expression. Humanists believed in the potential for individuals to improve and shape their own lives through education and reason.

While the study of classical literature is an essential aspect of humanism, particularly in how it drew inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman texts, the fundamental tenet of humanism centers more broadly on the value and agency of human beings in shaping their lives and society. Emphasizing human potential captures the essence of the movement, as it seeks to unlock the capabilities and creativity inherent in every individual.