Human Dignity in Action: Can a Concept Be a Game-Changer?

Abstract

These reflections explore human dignity, recognized as a common category across philosophical and religious boundaries, including the Kantian tradition and evangelical statements. Despite its broad acceptance, defining dignity remains challenging, as the Kantian adagio serves more as a limiting concept lacking metaphysical foundations. A crucial theological point involves the concept of “infinite dignity” ascribed to created beings, which risks “divinizing” dignity and obscuring the fundamental distinction between the finite creature and the infinite Creator. Moving forward requires paying close attention to the nuances individuals bring while resisting objectification and the absolutization of self-defined autonomy.