Happy National Freethought Day! Annually on October 12, today encourages people to be free thinkers and base their opinions on facts, science, logic, and reason. Today promotes logic and evidence-based decision making.
Additionally, the observance offers an opportunity for freethinkers to have a sense of community. It also provides a way to open a dialogue and share their opinions.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Think rationally and use #FreethoughtDay to post on social media.
HISTORY
Several groups since at least 1997 have promoted Freethought Day. Organizations such as the Freethought Society, American Humanist Association (AHA), and Secular Coalition For America are just a few.
The organizers selected the date of October 12 due to a series of events dating back to the Salem Witch Trials in 1692.
Throughout the trials, questionable evidence and accusers’ claims of witnessing devils and specters caused the case to be halted.
Eventually, the hysteria surrounding the case and a letter written by the Massachusetts Governor William Phips on October 12 declared “spectral evidence” inadmissible in court.
Up until that point, at least twenty accused had already been executed. The governor’s letter saved hundreds of lives.
At some point, the trials did resume and “spectral evidence” was allowed but largely discounted and those convicted were swiftly pardoned by Phips.
How can you apply freethought today?
#FreethoughtDay
@americanhumanist
@SecularCoalition
@thefreethoughtsociety
@nichecinema
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