How do different beliefs approach death? A dialogue panel discussion | Young Humanists

 Registration is closed for this event
May 25th, 2022 19:30   --   21:00

Join Young Humanists for a dialogue panel discussion about death.

As humanists, we don’t assume an afterlife exists. We try our best to live happily and ethically because this is the one life we have, and we shouldn’t waste it. However, over 40% of people in the UK identify with a religion, and most religions teach of an afterlife of some kind, often coupled with ideas about reward or punishment, whether that be the Christian or Islamic teachings of Heaven and Hell, or the Buddhist or Hindu teachings of reincarnation. Many people who do not subscribe to a particular religion still believe in the concept of a soul that carries on when we die. And it can be deeply embedded in our cultural backgrounds.

These beliefs can heavily influence our feelings about death itself, and about morality. How strongly do those belonging to a religion hold the beliefs associated with it? How literally are the descriptions in scripture taken? How do ideas about reward or punishment fit with the values espoused by spiritual/religious people? Does death bring fear or comfort, and can the idea of an afterlife motivate people to live more ethically? Do different beliefs about death really cause vast differences in the way we live our lives, or do we have more common ground than we think? Is speaking about death too much of a taboo, and how should we talk to our friends and family about death while being respectful to those with different beliefs?

Join us for a discussion about these questions, and more, with a panel of experts with different beliefs. Expect no easy answers. All are welcome and there will be plenty of opportunities to put your questions to the speakers

Spaces are limited and registration is essential. To reserve a space for you and your household, please book now. We will be using Zoom and a link will be emailed to you ahead of the event.

We look forward to seeing you there!