Ethical Foundations: Human dignity

Ethical Foundations: Human dignity

Human dignity is at the heart of all ethical and moral reasoning. This unit explores what human dignity means and why it is so central to how we live and act toward others. In the Catholic tradition, every person has inviolable worth from conception to natural death, forming the foundation for all ethical decision-making. You will learn about the biblical and theological roots of human dignity, how it is shown in the life and teaching of Jesus, and how it shapes our understanding of what is right and just. The course also helps you apply these ideas to real issues such as inclusivity, relationships, online behaviour, racism, gender, and health care, with opportunities to share insights and practical strategies with other teachers.

Topics

We will cover:

• Key concepts in human dignity
• Basic orientation to theological ethics

And refer to:

• Catechism of the Catholic Church
• Documents of the Second Vatican Council
• Theological sources

Often in discussion background questions emerge such as:

• What do Catholics believe about moral theology and ethics?
• What do we mean by human dignity?
• Can human dignity be lost or eroded by factors such as disability, declining health or dependence?
• Should governments only enact laws that uphold inviolable human dignity?

For group bookings please contact Gerard Moore: gmoore@bbi.catholic.edu.au