This chapter will first follow the threads of humanism as it has surfaced at various points and in various contexts throughout his¬tory. Second, the general principles gleaned from humanism's many expressions and which most humanists would ascribe to will be pre¬sented and discussed. A third section will be devoted to an exploration of humanism as it manifests itself in modern general and adult education. The chapter concludes with a discussion and analysis of humanistic adult education, its major proponents and applications.