What distinguishes the concept of Humanism from previous intellectual movements?

The distinction of Humanism from earlier intellectual movements lies in its strong emphasis on human experience and achievements. During the Renaissance, which is often noted for the emergence of Humanist thought, scholars shifted their focus from the predominantly religious themes of the Middle Ages to a more secular approach that celebrated the individual, human potential, and personal accomplishment. This movement sought to explore human experience through the lens of art, literature, science, and philosophy, valuing the contributions of individuals and the importance of human agency in shaping the world.

Humanists studied classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome, drawing inspiration from those works to understand and articulate the nature of humanity, ethics, and governance. This focus on the human experience was a significant departure from the scholastic emphasis on divine or theological perspectives that were prevalent before the Renaissance. Humanism encouraged individuals to explore their capabilities and to pursue knowledge in a variety of fields, ultimately shaping the cultural fabric of Europe and contributing to the development of modern thought.

While technology and innovation did play roles in the Renaissance, they were not central to the philosophical underpinnings of Humanism. Spiritual teachings and church-related critiques were also significant in the context of the era but did not encapsulate the essence of Humanism as focusing primarily on human aspects