Constitution
A small framework intended as much to limit Humanistan as to define it.
Preamble
Humanistan begins on common ground: the humanity shared by people who may disagree about almost everything else. This Constitution does not attempt to prescribe a complete way of life. Its purpose is primarily to protect the small amount of common ground Humanistan requires—and to limit what may be demanded in its name.
I. Human First
Humanistan begins with recognition of the human person. No category, institution, ideology, identity, or interpretation of Humanistan should make the individual human being disappear.
II. Shared Existence
Humanistan requires no common answer to why human beings exist, what existence ultimately means, or what constitutes a good life.
III. Belonging
Humanistan recognizes the importance of families, communities, cultures, religions, nations, and other circles of belonging. It does not seek to replace them. Belonging does not require an enemy.
IV. Difference
Agreement is not a condition of human recognition. Difference in belief, identity, culture, history, politics, religion, or worldview does not place a person outside humanity.
V. Uncertainty
Humanistan leaves room for questioning, learning, dissent, and revision. Humanistan itself is not exempt.
VI. Citizenship
Humanistan does not grant the underlying human belonging its citizenship expresses. No person becomes more worthy by joining Humanistan. No person becomes less human by rejecting it. No one is required to adopt Humanistan as an identity.
VII. Freedom of Conscience
No loyalty to Humanistan stands above individual conscience. People may question, criticize, disagree with, or reject Humanistan.
VIII. Recognition and Conduct
Recognition of someone's humanity does not require approval of their behavior. People and institutions may be opposed, restrained, criticized, judged, or held accountable without denying the humanity of the people involved.
IX. Authority
No founder, steward, leader, office, institution, text, or interpretation is synonymous with Humanistan itself. Authority exercised in Humanistan's name should remain limited, visible, and accountable.
X. Unfinished
Humanistan does not claim final knowledge about humanity or belonging. Its understanding may change. When it does, that evolution should remain visible.