Dutch humanism

Dutch humanism was a cultural and intellectual movement in the Netherlands during the Renaissance, roughly in the 15th and 16th centuries. It emphasized the study of classical texts, human potential, and moral philosophy, promoting a more secular and critical approach to education and society. Leading figures like Erasmus encouraged the use of reason and sought to reform church practices while maintaining Christian values. Dutch humanism played a significant role in shaping modern thought, fostering ideas of individualism, religious tolerance, and the importance of education, ultimately influencing art, literature, and political thought in the region and beyond.