The significance of Freemasonry for cultural development is undisputed today. Freemasons were active in virtually all cultural fields, making an important contribution to European culture. Numerous artists from all areas of creation were Freemasons, as were many scientific initiatives by Freemasons in learned societies, academies, and universities. Beyond the narrower concept of art, culture from a Masonic perspective also encompasses the development of those human abilities that are described as the "refinement and perfection of the human personality." The cultural importance of Freemasonry has always been, and continues to be, in the endeavor to unite as many faiths and various socio-political views in a tolerant manner.