Every Saturday, something simple — yet surprisingly powerful — appears out in the public square: our Public Question Board.
It’s exactly what it sounds like. We write a new question at the top of the board, draw a line down the middle, and invite passersby to tally their vote. “Yes” or “No.” “True” or “False.” Sometimes philosophical, sometimes cultural, sometimes just plain fun — but always thought-provoking.
At the end of the day, we count the marks and see what the public thinks.
Why We Do It
From a Humanist perspective, the Public Question Board captures several values we care deeply about:
1. Curiosity Over Certainty
Humanism encourages asking questions rather than fearing them. By putting big ideas into public view, we create a space where inquiry is normal, visible, and welcomed.
2. Every Voice Matters
You don’t need a degree, a title, or membership in any organization to participate. If you can hold a marker, you can share your view. That’s grassroots democracy in its most literal form.
3. Critical Thinking in Action
Questions like morality, science, religion, and society aren’t just abstract debates — they shape how we live. The board invites people to pause, reflect, and take a position, even if only for a moment.
4. Community Engagement
The board is also a conversation starter. People don’t just vote — they talk. They ask us questions. They challenge us. They share stories. It turns a sidewalk into a forum.
A Snapshot From the Board
One recent question — “Is Evolution True?” — drew a strong response. Dozens of tally marks quickly filled the “True” column, with only a handful on the other side. Regardless of where individuals landed, the real value was in the discussions that followed.
Some people voted and walked on. Others stayed for 20-minute conversations about science, education, and belief. The board became more than a poll — it became a bridge.
Data Meets Dialogue
While the tally marks give us a fun snapshot of public opinion, we’re under no illusion that it’s scientific polling. It’s informal, spontaneous, and local.
But that’s part of the charm.
The goal isn’t statistical rigor — it’s engagement. It’s about making thinking visible. When people see a wall of tally marks, they’re reminded that ideas are alive in their own community.
Why It Matters
Humanism is rooted in dialogue, reason, and shared exploration. The Public Question Board embodies all three:
- It makes philosophy public
- It makes science conversational
- It makes disagreement civil
- It makes participation easy
And perhaps most importantly — it makes thinking fun.
Stop By and Cast Your Vote
If you see our board out on a Saturday, come participate. Agree, disagree, challenge the premise, or suggest a future question.
After all, the Humanist project isn’t about telling people what to think — it’s about inviting them to think.
One question at a time.