Before the birth of humanism, the most important goal a person could have was to

a. take care of the human body.
b. live a sinless and holy life.
c. make the most of daily life.
d. honor and respect science.

Before Humanism people had a perception of the importance and influence of God in the affairs of mankind and one important goal was to try to live a sinless life, respecting the divine precepts. With the coming of Humanism, the importance of mankind's participation in their views and understanding was all aroud and towards mankind itself and no longer under divine orientation. Correct answer is B.

d) the narrator even suggested that the white whale, moby d, was ubiquitous and present in every ocean at every moment.  

merry christmas to you, too. may god be with you all in doing your work and just living a great life in general! < 3