Humanism was a Renaissance cultural movement. It is a philosophical and ethical stance that emphasises the value of human life individually and collectively. It generally prefers ideas like rationalism over ideas of established doctrine faith. Over time the definition has fluctuated but generally it has always referred to a perspective that affirms some belief of human freedom and advancement.
b) Explain why it developed in Europe when it did.
Humanism originated predominantly in Italy due to the legacy of Ancient Roman culture, this culture started the Renaissance. The humanist educational program in Italy won the peoples approval and by the mid fifteenth century. The upper classes received humanist educations.