Humanism and the Renaissance The Random House Dictionary of the English Language defines humanism as "1. Any system or mode of thought or action in which human interests, values, and dignity are taken to be of primary importance, as in moral judgments. 2. Devotion to or study of the humanities. 3. The studies, principles, or culture of the Humanists." But the true definition of humanism cannot be relegated to dictionary text alone; it must be expanded upon to include its origins and historical significance. The ancient Greeks and Romans first developed the idea of humanism as a very simplistic idea- to achieve excellenc