Which of the following was a main tenet of humanism during the Renaissance?

Humanism during the Renaissance was fundamentally characterized by a focus on human potential and individualism. This intellectual movement emerged as a response to the medieval scholastic tradition, which often emphasized religious authority and dogma over personal agency and the inherent value of human experience.

Humanists celebrated classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome, viewing them as a source of inspiration that could enhance individual understanding and moral development. The emphasis on human potential encouraged individuals to pursue knowledge, artistic expression, and a more fulfilled life. This focus on the individual’s capacity for reason, creativity, and achievement marked a shift in thinking that fostered advancements in art, literature, science, and philosophy during the Renaissance.

In contrast, the rejection of classical texts would be contrary to the core principles of humanism, as humanists sought to revive and learn from these works. Emphasizing religious dogma does not align with humanism, which sought to balance religious beliefs with a broader exploration of humanist philosophy. Lastly, while some humanists may have been involved in broader discussions about society, the promotion of warfare and conquest is not a foundational tenet of humanist thought, which prioritized the potential and dignity of individuals rather than advocating for violence or dominance.