Description
It is possible to make a fourfold distinction of the concept of dignity: ontological dignity, moral dignity, social dignity, and existential dignity. The most important among these is the ontological dignity that belongs to the person as such simply because he or she exists and is willed, created, and loved by God.[7] Biblical Revelation teaches that all human beings possess inherent dignity because they are created in the image and likeness of God.[11] The Church proclaims the equal dignity of all people, regardless of their living conditions or qualities.[17] The final section of this Declaration addresses some specific and grave violations of that dignity. These include: Poverty [36-37]; War [38-39]; The Travail of Migrants [40]; Human Trafficking [41-42]; Sexual Abuse [43]; Violence Against Women [44-46]; Abortion [47]; Surrogacy [48-50]; Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide [51-52]; The Marginalization of People with Disabilities [53-54]; Gender Theory [55-59]; Sex Change [60]; and Digital Violence [61-62]. Even in the face of so many violations, the Church encourages the promotion of the dignity of every human person, regardless of their physical, mental, cultural, social, and religious characteristics. This becomes an appeal in Pope Francis’ words directed to each of us: “I appeal to everyone throughout the world not to forget this dignity which is ours. No one has the right to take it from us.”[66]
NB This description is not to be understood as a commentary or interpretation. It is provided only as an aid to help find material on particular bioethical topics.
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