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The Insufficiency of Human Dignity: Toward a More Christian Anthropology

July 13, 2012

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The concept of human dignity has been central to the consideration of when medical technologies should be utilized in the setting of severe or terminal illness. However, the concept of dignity varies. As the concept differs so does the practical conclusion offered ranging from antinomian to vitalistic. At least three basic perspectives of human dignity have been widely considered in bioethics: attributed, intrinsic, and inflorescent. These concepts have been used in secular and Christian discussion. However, the meaning of these concepts in secular discussion has denigrated dignity to the realm of the immanent. This paper will consider transcendent dignity using Trinitarian theology, Christology, and Ecclesiology. The conclusion will question the sufficiency of dignity as a foundation for ethics and claim that we have far greater basis. Further, if dignity is to be called upon, a transcendent or derivative dignity is necessary for an accurate Christian anthropology.

Keywords:
vitalism, definitions of dignity, dignity and ethics, Trinitarian theology