Frequently Asked Questions
How does Ethical Culture make a difference in society?
Our interest in the greater society is expressed through programs such as discussion groups, debates and speakers on important issues of our day. These programs, scheduled throughout the year are all open to the public.
Like our national organization, the American Ethical Union, the Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County has a long history of social activism. Volunteering for fair housing, in homeless shelters and with peace groups are just a few of the outward expressions of our commitment to social progress. The founding of the local chapter of Amnesty International, for example, was the work of our members.
Is Ethical Culture social?
The Ethical Culture Society takes an active interest in fostering friendships among members and creating opportunities to interact socially. Get-togethers take many different forms, either spontaneous or recurring. A sampling includes parties, Saturday night suppers in members’ homes, hikes, picnics, cultural outings, and affinity groups like our Bridge Club and our “who lunch”. Yearly celebrations include our Halloween party and our New Year’s Day brunch.
We believe that people choose Ethical Culture when they feel at home and see the potential to forge lasting, mutually satisfying relationships.
How is Ethical Culture religious?
Ethical Culture holds that all people have inherent worth, regardless of their background, station in life or contribution to society. This means, at a minimum, that we not violate others or ourselves. Non-violation is not enough, however. Ethical Culture teaches that we must act in a positive way to support others to realize their potentials and in their ethical growth.
Ethical Culture believes that a sense of the religiosity emerges from more sensitively recognizing, appreciating, evoking and celebrating the humanity that resides in all people. In addition, Ethical Culture is deeply committed to appreciating the natural world on which we depend.
The humanism of Ethical Culture is non-theistic. While it does not technically deny the existence of a Supreme Being, Ethical Culture does not concern itself with theological issues. It focuses on the human and natural realms, and on the improvement and celebration of the one life we are certain we possess.
Ethical Culture is recognized by the government as a religious organization. Its leaders are legally empowered to officiate at marriage ceremonies.