James Hemming Essay Prize 2012 Announced

The British Humanist Association, in association with New Humanist and the South Place Ethical Society is pleased to announce the 2012 James Hemming Essay Prize. Launched in honour of Dr James Hemming (1909-2007), a passionate advocate of an education system that would value and encourage every child, the essay prize provides an opportunity for students studying at AS or A2 (or equivalent) level to think critically and creatively on the chosen topic.

This year’s question, inspired by British philosopher A J Ayer, invites students to discuss the quote that: ‘No moral system can rest solely on authority. It can never be sufficient justification for performing any action that someone commands it.’

Commenting on the announcement, Andrew Copson, Chief Executive of the BHA said, ‘The BHA has been supporting the James Hemming Essay Prize for four years and in that time we have seen many remarkable essays. Every year we are amazed by the depth of understanding and the ability so many young people have to communicate complex thought and ideas. The BHA is delighted to be involved in encouraging and inspiring young people to be rational and critical thinkers.’

Essay from previous winners of the James Hemming Essay Prize can be found at http://www.hemmingprize.org.uk/

Notes

For further comment, detail or information, contact Sara Passmore on 020 7079 3586 or by email at sara@humanism.org.uk.  

For more information on the prize and details on how to enter please visit http://www.hemmingprize.org.uk/

The British Humanist Association is the national charity working on behalf of non-religious people who seek to live ethical and fulfilling lives on the basis of reason and humanity. It promotes a secular state and equal treatment in law and policy of everyone, regardless of religion or belief.

Dr James Hemming (1909-2007) was President and later Vice President of the British Humanist Association, a frequent lecturer at the South Place Ethical Society and an Honorary Associate of the Rationalist Association, which publishes New Humanist magazine. He was a dedicated teacher and educationist, a distinguished educational psychologist and a passionate advocate of an education system that would value and encourage every child. His books include Individual Morality, and The Betrayal of Youth.

Sara Passmore, Head of Education and Promotion, British Humanist Association. Email: sara@humanism.org.uk Telephone: 0044 207 079 3586

British Humanist Association (BHA)

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