(Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Theology, 2007) Koopman, Nico
This article acknowledges that human dignity is a concept that cannot be not easily
defined. It attempts to acquire a cognitive grip on dignity by defining it in terms of
the needs and anxieties of human beings and in terms of narratives of the violation
of dignity. The foundations of human dignity in Trinitarian faith are then discussed
and specifically the implications and value of Helmut Thielicke 's concept of alien
dignity is briefly evaluated. It is argued that alien dignity does have the potential to
enrich contemporary dignity discourses. The argument that the notion of alien dignity
protects and enhances the dignity of the most vulnerable in society is specifically
acknowledged and cherished in contemporary discourses on a theological anthropology
of vulnerability. Finally, the article proposes that human rights are a
crucial means by which to protect the dignity of the most vulnerable members of society
and to enhance respect for dignity.