r in striving for the welfare of the
human race rather than for individual salvation; the satisfaction at
having a consistent creed that can be maintained against all criticism
without hypocrisy or evasion; emancipation from inhibitions required by
a supposedly divine teacher. Every pleasure is not a sin, but rejection
of theology does not imply indifference to evil. Science warns against
excess as strongly as any ancient command. The fear of natural or
man-decreed punishment in this world is as potent as the dread of
eternal torment threatened by Jesus.

If Jesus really was the sort of personage described in the Bible; if he
really was born of a virgin, controlled the elements and had power to
condemn unbelievers to eternal damnation, all people should obey his
every word. He should be followed literally; we should sell all our
possessions and take no thought for the morrow. But if Jesus was not
that sort of a person; if he was neither a supernatural God nor an
infallible man, he should not be worshipped as a redeeming Savior nor be
followed as a true guide for human conduct.

Our faith shifts with careful examination of the scriptures from belief
in Jesus to confidence that the world is a far pleasanter abode than
Jesus imagined. Without reliance upon the authority of Jesus we can
adopt a code which will prove comparatively effective in leading towards
a wholesome life.

CODE OF LIVING

1. Keep the body strong that the most efficient work may be done, the
greatest happiness obtained during life and a wholesome inheritance
passed on to future generations.

2. Cultivate the mind, learning as many important facts as possible,
striving to become expert in some particular field of endeavor.

3. Develop a scientific spirit, the essential characteristic of which is
a search for Truth in the light of evidence and reason. Do not deceive
yourself or others.

4. Base your spiritual concepts on the latest developments of Evolution.
Be prepared to change your philosophy to conform to the consensus of
scientific opinion.

5. Conduct all human relationships in a spirit of tolerance and love,
having proper consideration for others, not presuming to control their
lives.

6. Treat the opposite sex honorably, respecting their complementary
qualities, with due regard for succeeding generations.

7. Endeavor to embody in the laws of the community the spirit of equity
and progress.

8. Strive for an economic system u