When "Humanist" is a Cop-out (and When It Isn't)

Tina Fey was definitely on to something when she called BS on those who respond to the question about whether or not they are a feminist with "I am a humanist." In an interview with Rachel Simon, Fey said, "It's not the question, hotshot, the question is do you want to be paid the same for the same work? The question is do you want to control your body?" Since egalitarianism is foundational to humanism, it's inherently a feminist philosophy, so claiming one isn't a feminist but a humanist instead isn't just a slap in the face to feminist struggles-it's also nonsensical.

The current issue of Elle includes a discussion with Beyoncé about the need to work for equal pay and access to healthcare for women. Beyoncé says, "Working to make those inequalities go away is being a feminist, but more importantly, it makes me a humanist." Beyoncé is closer to the mark about humanism than others, since she explains, "I don't want calling myself a feminist to make it feel like that's my one priority, over racism or sexism or anything else." But she still seems to be using the term "humanist" as a non-label, something that somehow won't offend.

More...