Final answer:
The Renaissance devotion to Greek and Latin classics is called humanism because it emphasized individuals and the value of human beings. Renaissance scholars believed that studying ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, history, and literature could lead to personal and societal improvement.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Renaissance devotion to Greek and Latin classics has come to be known as humanism because of the emphasis upon individuals. Humanism stressed the value and dignity of human beings and believed that through the study of ancient Greek and Roman philosophy, history, and literature, people could improve themselves and their societies. Renaissance scholars were influenced by the works of ancient authors, such as Protagoras, who stated that 'Man is the measure of all things.'