Through wisdom to humaneness and democracy. Jan Amos Komenský and Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk

Essentially, the groundwork for democratic societal development and the fulfilment of man’s humane mission is laid by ethically guided education. Both in Masaryk’s and in Comenius’ thought, humaneness is a concrete expression conceptualised as a relational category. They both perceive its positive aspects, which are in complete contrast to selfish egoism. Their humaneness lacks the background of hate and hostility. Such a conception of humaneness might be construed as conciliation and resignation, yet the opposite is true. Positive humaneness is effective through its activeness, through its endeavour to help someone and make something happen. It is a societal category fostering the ground for new human coexistence, wise thought and competent handling of human affairs.