Intrinsic human dignity

What it is: Secular humanism affirms that people possess dignity and moral value that must be recognized in social and political life.

How the position understands it: Human dignity does not depend on religious belonging, ethnic origin, gender, or social status, and grounds rights, protection, and equal consideration.

Basis and context: The theme consolidated in modern ethics, human rights, and contemporary humanist movements.

Debates and variations: There are differences about the philosophical grounding of this dignity, but the normative commitment is widely shared.

Supportive

Humanist Manifesto III

secular-humanism,manifesto,ethics,contemporary

A brief contemporary synthesis of humanist principles.

Reference: Humanist Manifesto III.
Content: The document reaffirms human dignity, the use of reason, compassion, and responsibility in this world.
Use in debate: It is one of the most direct and accessible references for defining contemporary secular humanism.

Martha Nussbaum and the capabilities approach

secular-humanism,nussbaum,capabilities,flourishing

An important reference for dignity and human flourishing.

Reference: Martha Nussbaum's works on capabilities and justice.
Content: Nussbaum develops a vision of dignity and human flourishing tied to concrete conditions for a good life.
Use in debate: It is a relevant source for human dignity and ethical flourishing.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights, article 1

secular-humanism,human-rights,dignity,equality

All are born free and equal in dignity and rights.

Reference: Universal Declaration of Human Rights, article 1.
Content: The article affirms freedom, equality in dignity, and fraternity among all people.
Use in debate: It is an important basis for universal human rights in public non-confessional language.

Contrary

Jeremiah 17:9

bible,old-testament,human-nature,against

A verse used to criticize strong trust in human nature.

Reference: Jeremiah 17:9.
Content: The text speaks of the human heart as deceitful in a strong theological formulation.
Use in debate: It is used by opponents to question humanist optimism about human reason and morality.